2. analog
  3. 185809-19603

Moving Up from a Jolida JD9

Thinking about moving up from my modded Jolida JD9. It has Audyn caps, Sonic Imagery Discrete Op Amps, and sounds about as good as it ever will. I'd just like to have something that sounds smoother and more refined. I'd like to stay with tubes, preferably 12AX7's as I have a bunch of them already on hand. My budget is around $1500 and I have no problem with buying used gear. I have a VPI Scout with an ART9xa cart. I mostly listen to classic rock, blues, and smooth jazz. Any suggestions, opinions, advice will be appreciated.
Thanks,
Sam

128x128slovell

Showing 2 responses by tablejockey

tablejockey
3,793 posts
 

Used Manley Chinook can be had with your budget 

 

tablejockey
3,793 posts
 

"Hope it has enough gain for the ART9xa"

based on the latest spec:

Three gain settings: 40dB, 55dB, 64dB

Ares is a great phono amp especially in it's price range.

64dB should be fine, on paper perhaps on the  lowest acceptable value. The linestage will add a little more. 

Enjoy it. XA could be my next try. Plenty of experience with the 1st gen ART9's

Great cart for the money.

 

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