2. amps-preamps
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Black Ice F159 or Gold Note PH-10 ?

Looking to upgrade my Phono Pre. Currently I’m using a Pro-Ject Tube Box S with upgraded tubes (GE 5751 Black Plates) with my EAT B Sharp Turntable, AT VM740 Cartridge and Cardis Clear Interconnects. I just don’t like the sound anymore and feel, lets say “I Know” … My phono pre is the weakest link in my system!

I have the ability to pick up a Gold Note PH-10 w/ the external power supply for a decent price but in the past considered the Black Ice F-159. My dilemma is I really want tubes, I enjoy tube warmth and found out the F-159 even though it has Tubes, it’s loaded with Op Amps…Ugh!  The PH-10 not being tube either but gets a lot of great reviews even though still being SS.

I have a limited budget and am not adverse to purchasing used. I know there’s a lot of good used equipment out there, but hate when people suggest you should get a used “X”, and sure that sounds great, but just try to locate “X”, usually none to be found or way above my budget.  I hope this post does not get hijacked with long user histories referring me to buy something that’s either not to be found or out of my price range, So at this point if anyone has experience with either the Black Ice F-159 or the Gold Note PH-10 please advise.  Thx 

 

skiznfliz
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,652 posts
 

If you want rich tube sound and you use a MM or higher output MC research a used Ear 834P.

Not certain what the MM gain is (used to know), but it was quite high in my setup.

My dream phono (from 20 years ago) is the EAR 324 which oddly does not use tubes, but it sounded real.

 

DeKay

 

 

jond's avatar
jond
5,879 posts
 

I heard the Black Ice in the Zu Audio room this year at CAF, obviously you can't pick one piece of the chain out but overall an excellent sounding setup. I've not heard Gold Note but reviews are positive I'm sure either would be an upgrade on your Project.

dsv1
4 posts
 

I have an origin live aurora and zephyr tonearm with Hana SL plugged into a F129. And the F129 is fantastic. As you’ve stated it’s a hybrid, however I’ve rolled several tubes through it. And responds similarly to a pure tube platform.
 

Currently using nos bugle boys. The detail that comes through this set up is astounding. The additional cross talk function means no need for a separate fozgometer. 

I’ve had the F129 for nearly 3 years. Purchased when they were first released. 
 

I’ve no experience with the gold note. But a reputable company all around. 
 

I evaluated the EAT tube preamp which was excellent and similar in price along with the sunderland 20/20 and parasound JC 3. When deciding on the F129. At ythe time all these units were similar in price range. In the end I wanted tubes to roll as well. And had other 6922 gear in my stack. 
 

hope this helps. 

soix
9,694 posts
 

What’s your price range?

rivinyl
119 posts
 

Have you looked at Lejenklou?  Gets great reviews.  

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