Best under $500 phono preamp w/ Shure V15VxMR


After finally resolving a difficult TT issue, which amounted to essentially replacing my entire system, I now enjoy music through an Arcam A80 with the factory installed phono stage and a nice new Pro-ject Perspective III that has the acrylic platter. The Shure is properly mounted (a new one too) and I have new B&W speakers. My most frightening moment was first hearing the phono stage itself; it is a bit noisy and needed a lot of break-in time, and I feel it is still not quite there. This leads me to this: I do archiving of my LP collection onto CD and I feel the Arcam phono stage is not up to par for straight archival use. It has a coloration of the sound that is best described as: reserved in the upper most harmonics while being overly lush, not a bad thing but not neutral to my ears. I loved my Yamaha RX-596 phono stage (neutral, straightforward and very detailed), but I don't see the point keeping it just for a phono stage. While my old TT was working, the Yamaha made fantastic sounding CD-Rs. So, any recommendations for a new phono stage keeping in this budget. Also, any Benz vs. Dynavector thoughts would be helpful. Thanks, BR
128x128mrrose_indy
hi,

Project tube box II

see here

http://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Tube-Box-II?sc=2&category=401

a great performer for the money

Larry
I second the recommendation for the Lehmann - great detail, no colouration to the sound. I've had a Shure V15 Cartridge before and found it very neutral and balanced.
Thank you to all who responded. I will keep an eye out for the Lehmann, and I may also consider a Pro-ject too. Missed out on one just a few days ago. I also know that my B&W dealer here carries Jolida and their $450 phono stage is highly regarded. Any thoughts? I may ask for a demo in near future. BR