Integrated tube amp with phono pre - need recco


Believe it or not, my wife has caught the LP bug and we agreed to put together a midfi system for her to play records.  We had heard a system with a Peachtree integrated with a built in phono pre and loved it.  I’m finding the Peachtree lineup baffling so I can’t seem to identify the unit, but anyway…

Looking for recommendations MSRP in the $900-1100 range.  Must have phono pre built in (no linestages) and tubed.  What are the options you’d recommend?  

jult52

Croft is great choice esp in UK value for money. Sound way above cost.... Casework isn't fantastic but innards great. 

Rogue Sphinx V3 is amazing all around. It sounds like a $3k unit with a killer phono pre. 

Heed Elixer is an awesome choice. May know a guy that has one for sale. 

If you can stretch your budget, there is a BELLES "Aria" integrated amp (75 wpc) currently listed here for $1500 that would be worthy of your consideration.

Otherwise, I'd second the Rogue Audio "Sphinx V - 3" or Croft suggestions as good options in your current price range. 

I am not sure I would trust a new integrated tube amp that cost less than $1000. 

Tubes themselves are pretty expensive, not to mention quality boards and components.  Maybe used, but even then...

But, GOOD LUCK!

@jult52 - if you are in the US, contact Gene Rubin about the Heed. He may have a demo or an open box or whatever.  You may be able to work something out. It’s a very good amp and I think it would be worth stretching a little. 

Best to buy an old tube amp or receiver which usually came with good phono stages.

at your price range/criteria there's a muzishare x7 that gets good reviews, but i haven't heard it myself

I'm not wedded to tubes, so open to suggestions, but the ~$1000 MSRP price point is important.  The Heed Elixir (ss) is a terrific idea (reviews are very positive) but it's a small European brand and no used units are out there. 

Does the Peachtree Nova150 have a built-in phone pre-amp?  The info I saw indicates it doesn't.  I've been finding the Peachtree lineup baffling to work through in terms of specs. 

Really appreciate the help here.

 

You want tube’s because you believe SS is harsh. Look at the Heed Elexir.  Phono stage and a very good headphone amp. Check the online reviews. Absolutely smooth and musical. 

If you can waive the tube requirement, look at any of the Marantz integrated units at or below your price point.

In that price range, if you heard it in person and enjoyed it, the Peachtree Nova150 is what you'd probably want.  Used ones are always popping up for $850 or less.

I'd spend a few more bucks on a new Rogue Sphinx, but you might be able to find the earlier V2 version used for a decent price.  Though the Sphinx V3 has a much better built in phono.

 

Speakers are B&W

They can get a bit bright, the Sphinx would go good with B&Ws.

Thanks.  Speakers are B&W, impedance around 91-92, pretty standard.  I’ll take a look at the Sphinx and Croft units.

Oh shoot, I see you were looking for an integrated amp. Rogue Sphinx. I think when you said no linestages is what confused me.

The basic Croft Integrated with phono is excellent. Costs a bit more but its phono stage is very good. 3 tubes and MOSFET power.

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Not many choices in that price range. How about a Schitt Freya+ with an outboard phono amp?