2. amps-preamps
  3. 189346-178822

Do I need a phono preamp?

So about 2 years ago, I got the vinyl bug in a big way, particularly jazz (Blue Note especially). I started with a Technics SL1210GR table (before I got the bug) and frankly, it's done good service, but I've decided to upgrade to the SL1200G. I have a range of carts, from an MM Ortofon Blue to a high output MC AT-art9xi (additional cart reco's are welcomed!). I have Revel Performa 228's, one Rythmik sub, a McIntosh MC312 amp, and a McIntosh C53 preamp. The C53 is known to have a pretty darn good phono-pre for an all-in-one solution, and my listening experience supports that. It's hard for me to imagine it could be vastly improved (I realize this is likely mistaken).

 

My question is simple, and one you've heard countless times before---am I doing a disservice to the system without a separate phone-pre? If so, recommendations please ($3,000 +/-). Btw, I'm under the impression that the cart is more important to the choice of a phono-pre than the table, so your thoughts on that would also be appreciated.

 

Thanks! 

willyht

Showing 1 response by theflattire

theflattire
132 posts
 

Phono stage is most important.

Why? because the cart signal has to go through it before it hits your amp.  Imagine your ART9 going through a $500 stage compared to a $5000 stage; which one you think sounds better?  IME, a $5k stage is very different from a $500 one.

For tubes, I would find a Tavish Adagio.  Very close to the Modwright PH9.0.  The Modwright is just above your budget but it's also upgradeable should you want to go to the next level.

Solid state, the Darlington Labs MP-7, and now they have the MP-8B, is a giant killer.  My MP-7 was very close the Tavish.  I would also look at Lehman Decade or Sutherland or maybe Rothwell.

Phono stage for the win.

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