Looking for a new phono preamp


Hi,

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Here's the deal. I'd like to find a new phono preamp. I'd prefer solid state, tubes get noisy too fast. My latest cartridge is an AT-ART9XA. I'm currently running thru a sut into a cj pv10a with phono stage, but I have just got my hands on a Bel Canto pre5 that the new phono pre will be paired with.

I've got a hard upper limit of $2.5k, less is OK for the right unit. I'm looking to buy new. Dealers around me aren't really set up to demo vinyl, so I'm hoping the collective experience in here can at least point me in the right direction. Hopefully, it would have a one month return policy so I can try out the preamp.

TIA.

PsychoicReaction
psychoticreaction

Showing 1 response by 600ohms

"BTW - I also owned a Herron VTPH 2A and I thought that it sounded great on classical and jazz, but not so much on rock. (Not surprising since Keith has a classical music background.)"

I rarely post on the forums, but this is the second time I have seen this post so I will step in here briefly to make a much needed correction. I have played piano and drums in bands, orchestras, jazz combos, and rock groups. I like all those genres and more. I have also designed guitar and bass amps along with audio equipment. A phono stage is not right unless it does all genres equally well. The end result in any audio system is how well the entire system is matched to deliver correct timing which brings life to the music. Much like all the lenses in a telescope which all must be in focus, everything in an audio system counts. (That also includes the tubes you are using) - Keith Herron