Well, I have a Rotel, and it isn't very good. It isn't much on sound stage, doesn't have much bass authority, and is not particularly detailed although it's not bad in that category. I suppose what does one expect for $90 new? It is certainly functional, and it is certainly adequate for recovering access to that old vinyl collection, but I certainly would not call it hi fidelity.
Opinion of budget phono preamps?
Is there a consensus on the comparison of a budget phono pre vs the built-in stage of a budget preamp. Was considering something like an Adcom 565 or a CJ PV10 rather than a standalone Rotel, Creek, etc. Also considering a DIY AES PH-1, which might be best of both worlds. Whaddya think?