Building my 'first' system - Advice on Phono preamp please


Hi all,

I'm in the process of building out my first proper 2-channel system. I'm now looking to build a good analog front end.

Question:
What should I spend on a phono preamp?

My thought process:
a) Schiit mani for now, then upgrade later
b) Used Pro-ject Tube Boxc) New Space-Tech-Labs phono preamp (I live close to store)

Current Setup:
Speakers: Nola Boxer 3
Integrated Amp: Tsakiridis Aeolos
Dac: Schiit Bifrost 2
Streamer: Allo digi One signstureTurntable: Rega Planar 2 (2m blue cartridge)
Cables: Audioquest Golden Gate



dynamic_driven

Showing 1 response by pindac

The advise to reach beyond the standard level of designs within a certain budget and acquire a Phonostage that has a well respected status is a good advice.
From experience it is important for the end user to have heard the choices prior to making a decision, and even better if a final Choice on the shortlist can be used on the home system.
Phonostages are able to create very different impressions on a Room Full of Attendees at auditions/demonstrations.
My experiences of being an attendee at such events has moulded my thoughts on how sensitive individuals are to a Presentation.
      
I agree about the EAR 834P being coloured in the presentation, I have heard it over the past 20+ Years as the original model from Ear and in a variety of Clones with Power Supply and Circuit Modifications.
To my Tolerances the Colouration seems similar on all models heard, but I will not say the same.
Others were quite impressed by the Oversized Presentation.

I also heard a Modwright Valve Hybrid Phon' at a Bake Off where a EAR was in the demonstrations, even though both designs are noticeably coloured and the Antithesis of a SS phon's presentation.
The Modwright got my vote as for being the most acceptable colouration and the colouration seemed almost as if was an attractor to me.
I was very curious as to how it might work within my system.

When the Phon's from this event went into the £10 000+ Purchase Price, these models were shown to be extremely wanting. 

A careful investigation and time spent trialling out different Phon' Designs and Brands will be very beneficial to help an individual discover their preference for a presentation, SS, Valve Hybrid or Valve Input>Output.
How Lean and Clean or Bloomed will also be a important factor to a end user, it is they who will be sitting in front of it.