2. analog
  3. 125295-387

Inboard phono stage in a 7k+ integrated, how good versus standalone units?

Supposing a 7k plus integrated where you could add a mm/mc phono card (actually two mono phono cards in this case), and supposing the quality of assembly and parts equal that of the amp, which is pretty high, is it worth going for versus an outside box especially if you cannot audition it first?

I am thinking one less box plus no need for an expensive interconnect. Cost of the phono cards around $ $800 installed....my integrated is the Norma revo IPA-140.

I have been totally stunned by this jewel from day one after owning a truckload of both tube and SS integrated and separates.

Interested by the musical surroundings Nova and the ifi micro phono2.

Not a hard-core vinyl user, but still I enjoy playing my few LP's.

Thanks if you can help!
sonicbeauty

Showing 1 response by rauliruegas

rauliruegas
13,125 posts
 
Dear @sonicbeauty : I have no doubt on that Norma high quality performance and that means that the " road " is to stay with through those phono mono cards that I think were designed to match the IPA-140. So, this " road " is a true sure road.

Can an external phono stage really beats the Norma integrated? could be but maybe at higher price that  what you pay for the complete Norma unit and as you said you will need additional expensive IC cables and the cartridge signal must pass through these additional IC cables and through  those additional male and female RCA connectors that substantially increment the critical cartridge signal degradation: higher distortions!!!


Regards and enjoy the music,
R.


More to discover