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Onkyo A-9555 and Benz Ace L: step-up? preamp?

I have a modest system involving a Rega P3-24, an Onkyo A-9555 integrated amp and a pair of Athena AS-B2.2 speakers. I've been using the Denon DL-160 as my cart up to this point but have recently come into possession of a Benz Ace low output. The Onkyo works fine with a HOMC like the Denon, but isn't designed for a LO, so I find myself in the market for either a step-up or a pre-preamp.
While I've read through many threads here regarding the Onkyo, I haven't found any that involve this particular problem. Although I've looked at the classified offerings here, I'm utterly out of my depth and have no idea what will work with my system. Is it wise to purchase a reasonably priced tube preamp like the Soundstage Vacuum or should I stick with a step up transformer of some kind?
alekhine

Showing 1 response by alekhine

alekhine OP
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Let's assume for a moment that I ditch the Benz, as some of you have suggested. I just upgraded to a Rega P5 and really want to get the most out of this table. I'm intrigued by the "synergy" idea of pairing it with an Exact 2, but I bought the Benz with the (possibly mistaken) notion that a good LOMC, properly amplified, can generally sound better than an MM, as well as reducing the intrusiveness of pops and clicks.
So, setting aside monetary considerations for a moment, would pairing the Benz (or a comparable LOMC) with a preamp like the Nova Phonomena offer anything the Exact 2 (with just the Onkyo, naturally) wouldn't?
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