Best cost no object tube phono


Hi Agoners,


just upgraded everything to SS Accuphase, loving it and have no intention to go back to tube pre/power. However, I have to admit that I miss a bit of tube sweetness particularly on mid. What is the best cost no object tube phono stage?

Thanks in advance for any advices
uwiikz

Showing 3 responses by mcmprov

Thanks Raul.  Good to know.  That will be great it they can customize the gain.  
I am very interested in the FM Acoustics 123.  However, I wonder about the gain settings, either 46 dB or 56 dB for the 122 (assuming 123 is about the same, I couldn't find data).  For which cartridges would these settings be optimal?  Perhaps, such figures are meaningless and not comparable with other manufacturers.  I notice that most manufactures offer a setting in the mid 60s dB range, which would be suitable for many of today's top cartridges.  I have a variety of cartridges, turntables, and tonearms.  I'd probably have in mind to use EMT OFD 15, 25, 65 & JSD with FM Acoustics...to easily take advantage of the EQ curves, as I have many 78s.  But for this kind of money, I would really like to have a solid state unit that can be used with a great variety of cartridges.   I also own Lyra Etna, My Sonic Labs Signature Platinum, Ortofon SPU Century, & Benz LPS, each of which would appear to need more than 56 dB of gain.  My solid state system is Accuphase C3800 and A46, both of which have flexible gain settings.  As such, I am optimistic about being able to get sensible volume levels.  As such, I am really asking experienced audiophiles about how important it is to optimize gain between the phono stage and the cartridge.  I would really appreciate any insight.  All the best, Mark
Thanks Ralph.  Yes, I have the EMT OFD 65, and the Miyajima Infinity Mono 3 mil for 78s as well.  Aside from noise, I'd worry that the wide grooves of 78s might mess up my microgrove mono cartridges (OFD 15 / 25, Miyajima 1.0 mil).  Anyway, you might be pleased to know that I also have the AtmaSphere MP1...I'm your customer from California who asked for the mods so that I can use reel to reel tapes (IEC / NAB).  I should send my unit in for an update to the latest version...when funds permit.  I hope all is well, and I really appreciate the insight you share on these forums.  All the best, Mark