Manley Chinook SE MK2

@theflattire I've had the Modwright 9.0x for 2 weeks now.  In my opinion it's a step up no doubt from the Chinook. It's dead quiet and enjoyable to listen to.  Honestly I think it needs more time but I'm finding it very engaging and extremely smooth.  No harshness or unwanted nasties. Just very musical. Great details, depth and holographic.  Eventually I'll send it in for the T upgrade. 

@rooze I definitely don’t need a Steelhead with so many features. How does the sound compare to the Chinook?

@tablejockey recently i upgraded my cartridge to a Hana Umami Blue. Its still breaking in but so far i love it. I spoke with Upscale and they recommended the first place i should upgrade was the cart so i did. They said i would have to spend 10k to really up the turntable game so sit tight with the Classic 1.

Recently upgraded my preamp from the LS28 to a Ref6. And several months ago Sonus Faber Olympica 3 to Wilson Sabrina original version.  I have looked at a Audio Research PH8 however,  the downside is only 58db of gain which I think is ridiculous given the cost. Also single ended only.   The Umami Blue is 0.4mv and since I'm single ended, the Ref 6 doesn't have a high gain, I need 65db gain setting. If using XLR I could get by with 60db. 

How does the PL differ in presentation?

What about adding a SUT? Was recommended by a friend it's a substantial improvement. 

@pindac  the Chinook came with Tungsram as these were the choice of tubes by Upscale. I believe this is why it was named the SE MK2. Now it comes with EH I think because NOS is getting scarce.  

@tablejockey thank you for the information 😁.  PL offers great value. 

@theflattire after a lot of research and poking around with a couple dealers, I pulled the trigger on a Modwright PH9-X.  Highly recommended and seems to punch way above its weight.  Some interesting discussions here outside of my original question but it's nice to learn from pindac and lewm.

@tablejockey  i did not spring for the T upgrade but once the unit is broken in and i get used to it, I'm sure I'll send it in for the upgrade. From what I'm reading its very noticeable.  In fact, i may call TMR and see if they have one in stock. I wanted black with silver knobs but all they had in stock was the black X model with black knobs. No big deal but if the T upgraded model is in stock with silver knobs then its a no brainer. 

@theflattire I'll keep you posted and how long did it take for the upgrades turnaround?

Whart thank you for the detailed response.  A fellow audiophile had a Steelhead and didn't care for it whatsoever.  He ended up with a BAT but not sure of the model. He also had Audiopax and Duo's. His system sounds phenomenal.  His room is treated professionally which I'm sure helps greatly plus his analog system is 1st rate. 

I purchased the Modwright from TMR so I'll have a return policy if not satisfied but my gut tells me it will be a notch or two above the Chinook.  

@theflattire good to know thanks. TMR didn't have the T model in stock but once the PH9.0 is broken in,  more than likely I'll send it in for the T upgrade.  

@theflattire is the information on a Modwright website?

@theflattire thank you very much and I'll do some more research on threads. I've read a few and find nothing but high praise for the 9.0. I never took it as you were bashing the Chinook. I've probably read some of the same opinions and feedback.  

• @pindac thank you. TMR told me they have not had one Modwright come back after the trial period but everyone's mileage varies right? I seriously doubt I'll be sending it back but yes you're correct I wanted to have the option. I can say the Umami Blue is an impressive cartridge and probably why I wanted to step up the phono preamp game :)

@pindac I do not have experience with really high end cartridges other than my Dynavector 20x2L however, the Blue is definitely a step or 2 forward. I've also heard some very expensive Koetsu and Lyra carts and the Blue is very similar in sonics. I'm not saying at those levels but close in my opinion.