ARC Phono - Which one should I get? Ref or PH7

What cartridge are you going to be using with this phono preamp? (Specifically, what is the output of said cartridge?) The ARC phono preamps tend to have a somewhat limited amount of gain, so if you are running a really low output MC cartridge, (say 0.25 mv or less), they may not be your best choice.

ARC is about to release a " Ref 2" phono stage with adjustable gain ( for both SE and balanced outputs). This may well answer the theoretical issues Kurt tank raises.
I agree in part with him but the PH7 does work with LOMC . This depends in part on the line stage used.I use a PH7 and ref3 with a LOMC of 0.23 mv with no problems , but , as always, YMMV.

Well to simplify things, in this case lets say if I decide to go with coils....
They look different and its a different design all togather. I will be using it with a tube pre of some nature in the chain matching it with a levinson power amplifier.
Any input will help. I am just wondering which would be a more enjoyable phono to have when it comes to sound quality, egronomics, built and so on.......

Thx

The PH-7 has many more features than the Reference, (and more easily accessed via its remote control), so I would go with that one. As long as you don't go with a really low output cartridge, you should be okay.

Does it have to be ARC? If you want value for money in a truly high end tube phono stage, then look at the TROM Seven. Bespoke item, built to order (in the UK) and good value (both in audio and £-dollar terms).

Charlie