Gold Note PH-10 vs Manley Chinook
Hello all, I am considering an upgrade from my Musical Surroundings Phonomena II phono pre. Locally available used are the GN PH-10 (with PSU-10 power supply) and the Chinook. Curious if anyone has experience with both. Or one, whatever. The Phonomena is nice and a decent upgrade from what I was using. It is robust and dynamic but probably not the most subtle. I wouldn't mind a bit more detail and imaging/soundstaging. A little warmth ok too. I know we are talking solid state vs tubes and I am leaning towards the tubes/Chinook. But, the GN gets very good reviews and seems extremely versatile. Associated TT is a Rega 6 with Exacta cart.
Thanks!
To my ears, Chinook does what tube units do- give a level of "organic" that's a hit or miss thing with SS. Not "tubey" but "real" presentation. If you're a "Listen for noise" type, max volume no music playing will result in tube hiss. Goldnote does have positive user reviews, but you'll have to have both side by side in your setup to have the definitive opinion. |
SPL Phonos should be on your list. IMO is the best Phono Pre I have owned in the last 20 years. But I am streaming more and more. https://the-ear.net/review-hardware/spl-phonos-mm-mc-accurate-vinyl-sound/ |
2 good choices, it comes down to preferences. However, the “tube” Manley would likely sound the least like his current SS phono stage which may be a decision factor. I favor variety and exploration, so my vote is for you to try “tube”. You can later switch back to SS, it’s about improving the sound to your preferences. |
