How is the EAR 843P Deluxe vs. Modern phono preamps?

It is indeed a classic and has a wonderful tube sound. Noise floor is non-existent and it has plenty of gain. For the money I personally don’t think you can do better for a tube phono stage. I used to have the dual deluxe MM/MC version but (unfortunately) sold that and now have just the MM version.

But you asked about also against modern phono stages. I also have as my main phono stage a Manley Steelhead and I still think it sounds great compared to that one. Another option would be a Bellari, made in the US phono stage with a single 12ax7.

Yeah, that's really helpful. Was it supposed to be funny too?

Mashed potatoes and tomato. So original, thoughtful and helpful.

tre9901: you deserve better than this.