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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
psychoticreaction OP
37 posts
 
My reason for asking about the Herron is informational.  As I said before, I haven't completely ruled out tubes.

I don't think I'm overthinking anything.  I'm just trying to decide what to buy, and the information I've gotten from this thread so far has been extremely helpful.
labelman
14 posts
 
@ Gestalt is correct.  I've demo'd the Gold Note first hand recently - with Focal Stellias and Luxman L-171 w/ Koetsu Black Cartridge.  Exquisite.  The Quad HP is also nice and under budget.

jjwaudionut
11 posts
 
A great value for an outstanding phone pre is the PH-16 from Valve Tube Audio. It is sold as a kit, but I had mine built for me by Troy, and with a Lundahl SUT added for low output moving coil carts, the price was around $1200. Without the SUT it is just under $1000 assembled. Yes, it is tubed (four 6922 tubes). It sounds incredible. Check it out athttp://www.tubes4hifi.com/PH16.htmor an even fancier option with different parts but the same basic design is athttp://www.dsachsconsulting.com/custom%20tube%20phono%20stage.html
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
My reason for asking about the Herron is informational. As I said before, I haven’t completely ruled out tubes.

I don’t think I’m overthinking anything. I’m just trying to decide what to buy, and the information I’ve gotten from this thread so far has been extremely helpful.

okey dokey

good luck to you on your search and journey
amudhen's avatar
amudhen
17 posts
 
I am using an ELAC Alchemy series PPA 2, having moved up from A Musical Surroundings phonomena  II+.. I am very pleased with it and it is within your $ range, has SE and  XLR inputs and outputs and variable loading plus gain option. Fremer liked it and so do I. Check in out.
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