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Phono preamp suggestions

Does anyone have any experience with any of the following phono preamps:

CEC PH53
Creek OBH-15
Musical Fidelity X-LP
Primare R-20
Pro-ject Tube Box SE II

I'm looking to buy a phono preamp second hand for use with a Pro-ject 6Perspex. The models I listed are all available used where I am (Japan).

For the cartridge I was thinking of either audio technica AT33EV or Ortofon Rondo Red, or an MM cartridge in a similar price range (Ortofon 2M black or bronze?). Frankly, I have no idea what kind of difference to expect between MC and MM, except perhaps that not all the preamps I listed will work as well with MC. (I am not interested in getting a separate step-up transformer.)
ahochan

Showing 1 response by miner42

miner42
709 posts
 
While I was shopping for a phono stage I was looking at most of the models you have listed but I decided to go with a Graham Slee Era Gold Mk V. One reason I did is becuase my dealer allowed me to take it home to demo before buying. I was looking at both tube and SS, too. I initially was interested in both a MM & MC capable stage; the Era Gold is MM & HO MC only. My cartridge is a HO Dynavector DV 20X. I am thrilled iwth the outcome especially compared to the onboard phono stage on my preamp.

Part of the magic is matching your phono stage to your cartridge which is where a reputable dealer comes into play. Let you ears make the decision for you. Best of luck.
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