As a previous owner of the Parasound P5, next year(when your bank account has recovered!) I'd suggest a new pre. The P5 is not completely faithful to the signal and the phono section is nothing special, something that is common among budget components. The problem is, pre's can get very expensive as well, especially with manufacturers that use a distributor/dealer network. Everybody needs a certain percentage to make it worthwhile.
So I'd suggest an internet direct manufacturer where prices are much better for the performance delivered. When I directly compared my Halo P5 to a Schiit Saga pre, the Saga had significantly more detail and a better soundstage. It retails for $350. There are several options in the direct market.
So I'd suggest an internet direct manufacturer where prices are much better for the performance delivered. When I directly compared my Halo P5 to a Schiit Saga pre, the Saga had significantly more detail and a better soundstage. It retails for $350. There are several options in the direct market.