2. analog
  3. 125723-119

Do they make a quiet great sounding phono pre amp??

Hi, I have purchased and listened to 3 phono preamps which are: A musical surroundings phonomena, musical surroundings Nova II, and a Manley labs Chinook. The Manely labs Chinook is by far bettter sounding then the first two (double the cost too). But, All three have given me nothing but trouble (noise,noise,noise even terrible clipped signals!), and 2 of them basically failed on me. So before I go DIGITAL, can someone please tell me who makes a phono preamp in the $2,000-$3,000 range (tube or solid state) that I can rely on, and sounds as good or better than the Chinook?? Thanks.


Matt M                                             
128x128mattmiller

Showing 1 response by waltersalas

waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
947 posts
 

The Herron VTPH-2, as several other members with impeccable pedigree have already mentioned, is a terrific unit. I had one and loved it. I foolishly sold it a few years ago and have regretted it ever since.

Recently, I found a great deal on an Allnic H1201, and I can say with confidence that it is, at least to me, right there neck and neck with the Herron. I've tried it with both MM and MC cartridges, and it sounds tremendous with either. I honestly cannot believe how quiet this thing is. They seem to go for a bit less than the VTPH-2, but not only could I be happy with either, I actually have been. I'd love to get another Herron to compare them side by side in the same system, but for now I am more than satisfied with the Allnic.


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