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Cart / Phono preamp for Technics SL-5200

Trying to put together a VERY budget analog rig. Would like to put no more than $200 total into a cart and phono pre for a 'table I just bought. Currently thinking AT-95E and the new Music Hall phono pre. I do not want a Bellari or Cambridge Audio pre. I previously had a Technics 1210 with a Ortofon OM5e running into my old NAD 3225PE's built-in phono(which I was pretty happy with). Any thoughts on how the AT/MH would compare? Amp is a Linn Classik, speakers are GMA Europas. Any thoughts or proven cart/phono pre combos for Technics or other tables would be appreciated.
clbone

Showing 4 responses by clbone

clbone OP
41 posts
 
Thanks everyone. I was hoping to successfully cheap out with the AT95e, but I'll spring for the 120. Can anyone vouch that it soundly beats the Ortofon I had previously?
About the CA - I'm just not a huge fan of their products in general. I'm not really looking for a NAD, either. I've heard a strong recommendation for the new MH ph1.2 - it doesn't look like the Phono Box to me?! There's also a Rotel or 2 on here now for a hun'erd bucks, so I could get that and the 120 and meet my goal of <$200.
clbone OP
41 posts
 
Just bought a Grado Red for $65. That leaves $135. Now considering the Rotel 970BX. btw, noticed the original Music Hall phono pack looks exactly like a Tonar (off-brand???) pre - not so much like the Pro-jects I've seen. My source for the MH ph1.2 recommendation notes that it's a little better than the original phono pack. Then there's the modded CA 540p up for sale now. Also (Petsound, please tune in) considering the TCC TC-760LC from phonopreamps dot com.
clbone OP
41 posts
 
Well, it's done. I bought the Rotel. The tt, cart, and preamp for an even $200. Hope the Grado doesn't hum, but if not I think I could have done worse for the money.
clbone OP
41 posts
 
Vinyladdict, Yes, I sort of got in a hurry. I did take Ekobesky's advice on the Rotel preamp, though! I can take my lumps on the Red I suppose and get the AT - I'll just plunk down the extra cabbage and get the 120, though. Thanks again.
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