Phono Preamp Suggestions?

Thank you all for the responses so far.

I have considered upgrading the preamp to a 2-ch preamp with HT bypass, but the Denon prepro actually has a very clean preamp. While this may be my 2nd weakest link, I have thusfar assumed my current phono preamp is the weakest link.

Now, if I found a 2-ch preamp with HT bypass and a very good phono preamp, that would be an option.

But, at this point, I don't want to by any "compromise" pieces. I want to buy something now that I can be with happy for several years.

So far there have been some good suggestions on phono preamps. Where would the Pass Ono (used), compare to the current suggestions?

Are there any Preamp with included phono stage, and HT bypass, that campare with the EAR or Pass for example, in the $1000-$1800 range?

Darrell

Dan,

Thanks for the inputs. So do you have any suggestions along the 2-ch pre that is within my price range?

My original plan was to spend $1000-$1800 now and get a phono pre that will last for several years.

Later, if I decide my Prepro needs to be replaced, I planned to scrape up money and do that. If the Prepro is indeed my weak link, of course I will upgrade that before my phono pre.

For those that are recommending that I buy a 2-ch first, is this because you assume the Denon Prepro does not have a good preamp, or because all Prepros have subpar preamps?

Thanks,
Darrell

Thanks all for the comments so far. You've given me a lot to think about.

A friend may be upgrading from his Pass Ono soon. How would this compare to the other phono preamps mentioned here?

Darrell

Genesis,

I see someone from Canada has one for sale here, and they also upgraded from the 1200 to the 1500. this wouldn't be you would it?

Darrell

While I have been mulling over the preamp and phono preamp options, a friend let me try his Pass Ono phono preamp.

It was very detailed without coming off as dry or analytical. The soundstage was wide, and the instruments were well defined. It was a marked improvement over the Mobile Fidelity I have.

If I can try a tube preamp, I will. Then I will have a better idea weather a new preamp or phono preamp will be better bang for the buck.

Darrell

The Allnic sounds great by your description, but I am not able to find much info on it via the web, and I don't have a way to demo it.

I could buy one used, then try to sell it if I don't like it, but since it isn't a mainstream piece, it makes me a little leary.

I appreciate the recommendation.

John,

Thanks for the suggestions. You mentioned you ran the 9000 at 38 ohms loading. Can I ask what loading you used with the 90X?

Darrell