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Budget Phono preAmp

Hi All,

I am trying to make a small upgrade to my current system - for which Vinyl will be the most used source. My thinking is an affordable Phono PreAmp - but I’m trying to decide which one. I’m currently looking at either:
  • Rega Fono MM MK3
  • Moon 110LP v2
My current system is:
  • Dynaudio Special 40s
  • 30 year old Linn Axis Turntable with new Addikt MM cartridge
  • Marantz sr5014 A/V receiver
So right now it is all Moving Magnet and no need for Coil. Eventually the Linn will need to be replaced, and probably a later cartridge upgrade too, but by then I’ll have upgraded the receiver situation to either a nice integrated option or separates. Right now its most bang for the buck with a limited investment.

All thoughts warmly appreciated!
terracebk21
nlitworld
57 posts
 
+1 for the Project Tube Box S2. Replace the tubes with a set of Gold Lion from Upscale and you have a real decent setup on your hands. I also bought a linear power supply for it and that bumps it even better.
bstatmeister
534 posts
 
I forgot about the TCC-TC750 from phonopreamps.com (That Charles7 mentioned above). I've used one before and it is surprisingly good for the money. In fact, this may be the best bang for the buck out there at ~50 bucks
barkeyzee1
41 posts
 
I'll give another recommendation for the Schiit Mani as a budget phone preamp. I bought one on a whim to see if it was any better than the phone stage on my older NAD preamp, and it sure was, and by a lot. More gain, and improved clarity / sound.

A great buy for $129 or so, lots of dip switches on the bottom of the unit to accommodate almost any cartridge; running a Goldring E3 MM Cartridge on a Pioneer PL-550 TT, sounds great.
skywachr
123 posts
 
The recommended Parasound Zphono but earlier non XRM model can be had for only a bit more than the Mani. It's definitely a step above the Schitt.

Also the phono stage of the recommended Adcom GFP 565 is also excellent. I have used both in secondary systems. Both punch way above their price points.
dinov's avatar
dinov
803 posts
 
Ditto on the Schlitt Mani. Excellent phone pre!
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