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Help me choosing Phono Preamp

Hi,

I need suggestion in choosing a quality phono stage (SS or tube, new/used) under $3000 to mate with Denon DL-103 cartridge. The cartridge has very low output voltage around 0.18mV. Few pre I considered are Manley Chinook, EAR 834P, Liberty B2B-1, and MF MX-VYNL. All of them seem to require a step up transformer to work with DL-103. I don't like the idea of outboard transformer, and also I want to keep number of boxes as minimum as possible. Is there any outstanding pre out there (full function or stand alone phono stage) with input sensitivity close to 0.15 V to work with DL-103 ? Other qualities of the preamp I am looking for are: utterly transparent, extreme resolution, but not lean/thin/weak in sound, MC and MM both options will be a plus . Any suggestion will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Sunny

topmostaudio
jperry
2,448 posts
 
What is your current phono preamp?

Maybe you should consider a higher output cartridge instead.
topmostaudio OP
28 posts
 

jperry,   I dont have a phono preamp now. My line stage is Coincident Statement.

topmostaudio OP
28 posts
 

Thanks for lot of very good suggestions.

Can anybody comment on Accuphase C2810 (It is a full function pre with phono and line stage) and its sonic personalities compared to above discussed phono stages(e.g., Steelhead, VTPH2, MF kW, Allnic, etc) ?  Probably I can get a C2810 under $3000 (but can not audition it before purchase). It comes with a line stage as an added plus.

bpoletti
1,552 posts
 
Herron on top and occupies the first twelve positions on the list.  Then the Allnic, followed by the Manley, then the Accuphase. 

Spend a few dollars more on the Herron VTPH-2 and you won't have to worry about upgrading. 

I need to also indicate that this is my opinion.  Others may differ.  YMMV, but I doubt it.
derrickengineer
36 posts
 
I had an Allnic H-1201 and it was amazing with the carts I used, Dynavector XX2-mk11, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Ortofon 2mblac mm. Allnic Puritas, Benz Micro, Grado. Then went to Allnic H1500 and it is the phono to beat at its used price point, Upgraded with NOS 417A Western Electric tubes was a revelation in musicality.. to my ears , in my system. Allnic H1500 a keeper for sure. Quiet, dynamic, very nice musicality not analytical. Lots of useful features for running two tonearms. I would buy another one or go up the Allnic line if I was in the market.. 
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