2. analog
  3. 1173389956

Bottlehead Seduction Phono Stage question

Anyone build one of these things? If so, how do you like it, and what does it compare to?

I've got a Primaluna Prologue One with the built in phono card. It sounds great, but like everything I'm sure there's better out there. One thing perplexing me is that the Primaluna card is very small and is soldered directly to the RCA inputs. This seems like a super minimalist way to do things (in a good way). On the other hand, an outboard phono stage requires two sets of interconnects, tubes, and all sorts of other things to run through. With that in mind, will I really get better sound by adding a more complex item to my chain?

I'll be using it with a VPI Scoutmaster, Dynavector 10x5 combo.
gnugear
5 responses Add your response
pauly
1,012 posts
 
Yep. It is a stunning phono stage, and responds well to mods. Mine is definitely a keeper.

I compared it back to back to a friends Krell. He was a little skeptical at first, the seduction being a "home rolled" phono. After the needle dropped he was suitably impressed. I believe he has one on order.

Get the Seduction. You will not be disappointed.

Regards
Paul
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,992 posts
 
I totally agree with Paul! I LOVE my Bottlehead Seduction. It's kinda cool that you can mod it until the cows come home, (but do NOT have to). I replaced the stock Interstage and Output caps with Auricaps...and WOW!!! It REALLY allows for severe tube rolling also.

I'm NEVER selling mine :-)
mark02131's avatar
mark02131
99 posts
 
I am also thinking about getting one. but I don't use a preamp I wonder if it has enough power to drive the amps directly, I would mod it with a volume control.

Mark
gnugear OP
32 posts
 
Thanks. Have you done any mods or upgrades to your Seduction? I added Mundorf and V-Caps to my Primaluna and the difference was dramatic. I was thinking of doing the same to the Seduction if I get it.
pauly
1,012 posts
 
Gnugear - Mundorf & V-Caps will be great in the Seduction. I currently have dynamicaps but will go V-caps soon. I would suggest you do the C4S upgrade also.

Mark, I drive my power amp directly from my Seduction by way of a 5mtr IC. No problems whatsoever. I have a couple of pre amps, but the sound is best with the Seduction driving the amp directly.

Regards
Paul
Log in to respond
More to discover
80x80
Pro-Ject Dark Side of The Moon
80x80
De Baer Saphir Turntable with Onyx Tonearm and Reference PSU
80x80
Maplenoll Ariadne and Athena with pumps