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Anyone compare budget phono oft recomended?

In most threads there are a handful of budget phono stages that get a lot of praise. The common thread seems that most times there is a recommendation without an A/B comparison.

The question is, what have been your experiences with the sub $500 used or new phono stage/preamps if you have compared them head to head. Looking for flexibility and for musicality.

The usual suspects (Cambridge, Rega, Lehmam, Slee, Musical Surroundings, Billari, Grado) or others would be strong consideration. How they compared to others on the list or at higher price/performance range would be very helpful. Lastly, can you share a little why you chose your favorite and what set it apart?
brownsanandy

Showing 1 response by duaneadam

duaneadam
36 posts
 
I have a PS Audio GCPH in one room,and a Steelhead in another. Have A/B'd them side by side numerous times. What you pay for in the Manley is superior enunciation of individual instruments. It rocks with violins, sax, voices etc. Imaging is near equal, the Manley has better depth, the PS Audio more concise and stable horizontal placement. The Manley has a more liquid mid and high range with a flatter bass response. The PS Audio sounds like it has a db or two less around 110hz. Very slight edge to the Manley for punch/dynamics, but it's pretty close.

That said there have been plenty of times I've been perfectly happy listening to the PS Audio. It's pretty remarkable for the price.
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