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Phono preamp question

I'm slowly trying to upgrade my vinyl system to something that could be considered moderately decent, not necessarily high end. I have an older full feature preamp and am thinking in getting a separate phono preamp. I'm assuming the phono preamp would need to be connected to one of the line inputs. Would my preamp be the weak link if I get a good phono preamp to use with my existing preamp? Can a phono preamp be connected directly to the amplifier? FWIW, the preamp is an Adcom GTP-750. Thanks.
kalali

Showing 2 responses by dorkwad

dorkwad
548 posts
 
Look for a used Audible Illusions 2C or 2D, or for about twice the money, a used 3A.  The 3A would go for about $1200 so you could get a 2D for about $600.  The 3A would be newer, however.  All these have a very good built in phono preamp and the line stage is also good.  The 3A would most likely satisfy you for a long time and through several system upgrades.  I had a 2D for about 18 years that I loved.  I bought a 3A with John Curl moving coil phono pre so I could use low output MC cartridges again.  Can't use MC with the 2C or 2D.  They both sound very good with MM cartridges.  Get a good quality SS amp to go with it and the combo will most likely be very satisfying,
dorkwad
548 posts
 
Kalali,
    There is an Audible Illusions 2D preamp (full function including phono) for just $420 used on Audiogon in the past couple days.  It took well over a $3000 phono section to best my previous Audible Illusion 3A.  Waste your money on some cheaper built phono preamp when you could have a much better sounding full-function preamp for about the same money and sell your old preamp and it will cost you very little overall.
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