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Phono Pre with AES AE-3

Does anyone have suggestions for a phono pre that will mate well with an AES AE-3 mkII? I'm guessing that the AES PH-1 is a good bet but I'm sure that there are others.

I've been using a Musical Fidelity X-LPSv3 along with the outboard power supply. I like the fact that it is quiet, but I'm looking for something that can tame some of the harsh sibilants from certain LP's. I'd also like to get more of a "3-D" effect with the soundstage.....I'm probably leaning towards a tubed unit.

My current sources are:
- Marantz(Clearaudio)/Satisfy/Virtuoso Wood
- Linn LP-12/Basik/Dynavector 10x5
roblanger

Showing 1 response by mingles

mingles
800 posts
 
I found the X-LPS painfully two-dimensional compared to a Wright WPP200c, Wright WPP100c, EAR 834P, Bottlehead Seduction, and Hagerman Cornet2. Any decent tube stage will sound better than the X-LPS. IMO, you don't need to spend an arm and a leg to get a phono stage that delivers air and spaciousness. If you're willing to build a kit, you can get amazing performance for a bargain. I'd put the Seduction, Cornet2, and Juicy Music Tercel in this category.

If kit building isn't your cup of tea, then it depends on your budget. What are you willing to spend?
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