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Classe phono stage?

Hi folks, I just bought a Classe CP-35 with no phono stage. I would like to get input on the optional phono stage. It is cheap (as these things go) at $250 list.

Has anyone used this phono stage, and how does it compare to reasonably-priced external phono pre-amps (say, $500 or less)?

Unfortunately, it is not available to hear locally.

Thank you!

- Eric
ehart

Showing 1 response by ehart

ehart OP
215 posts
 
Hi Jeff,

My Turntable is a Denon $150 model (nearly new), so definitely low-end by standards here. It has a switchable pre-amp of it's own.

In testing with a Rotel pre-amp (RC-1070), I found the phono stage of the Rotel sounds *much* better than the turntable's internal pre-amp. So it's clear that pre-amp does matter, even with this low-end turntable.

Based on your advice, I expect I will go with the Classe add-in phono stage. Sounds like it is "good enough" for what I have.

Thanks!
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