2. amps-preamps
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Looking for phono preamp advice in the $1000 - $1600 range

I am thinking of upgrading my current Vincent PHO-701 hybrid phono stage to something that doesn't cost an arm and a leg and still would make a meaningful improvement.

The chain I have now is Rega P8 with Hana SL LOMC cart, the Vincent phono stage, PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium (tube) preamp, McIntosh MC312 (solid state) power amp, and GoldenEar Triton One.R speakers.

My armchair research has identified e.g. the following phono stages in a reasonable $1000 - $1600 (depending on which and demo/used vs. new):

  • KTE LCR-1 MK5 / MK5S (hard to find)
  • MUSIC HALL Analogue A3 Vacuum Tube Phono Preamplifier
  • Sutherland Engineering Insight LPS
  • Sutherland TZ VIBE (with its intriguing transimpedance concept)
  • Project Phono Box RS2 MM/MC Phono
  • Hagerman Audio Labs Trumpet MC (many positive reviews, with comments that it would benefit from an updated external power supply which, if so, would add additional $$)

Any recommendations or insights into these, or others in my price range, given my surrounding equipment would be greatly appreciated!

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Showing 1 response by g4mobile

g4mobile
15 posts
 

I’ve owned a lot of phono preamps including the Sutherland TZ Vibe, Hegel V10, Ray Samuels Emmeline XR-2, Vincent PHO-8 and 701. I’m currently using a Modwright PH 9.0XT.

The Modwright PH 9.0XT is the best I’ve ever used and no plans to upgrade any further. It’s end game for me. It’s also much higher than your price range.

The Ray Samuels XR-2 was great and around $1,200.00. I still own it and it is the new 2023 model with upgraded Sparkos SS3601 Op Amps. It was my favorite out of all the preamps I’ve owned until the Modwright. It has a separate power supply and well built.

I’d be willing to sell the XR-2 if you’re interested. Send me a PM.

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