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Phono stage for my system?

I am getting back into my vinyl collection and would like some recommendations from vinyl enthusiasts. My equipment includes the following. 

Ayre K-5xe pre-amp - no phono stage
Pro-ject Debut III turntable with stock Ortofon cartridge (OM 5e I believe)
Proceed HPA2 amp
Aerial Acoustics Model 8b speakers

I am currently using the phono stage in my Integra video processor/pre-amp the signal from which passes through the Ayre pre-amp. I find it lacking in detail and soundstage even when listening to some excellent DG and Decca classical recordings. I realize my cartridge may pose some limitations, so let me know if you view that as an area for potentially greater improvement. 

Given the level of my turntable and cartridge, my budget is up to $1,000 for the phono stage, with the understanding I may choose to upgrade the cartridge or turntable in the future.  Thanks in advance for your suggestions. 

sameyers1

Showing 4 responses by uberwaltz

uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
I agree the Whest is a good solid choice but I would say I have NEVER seen one for sale at anywhere near 1k, usually much closer to $1500 to $1700 for the Whest Two.
But maybe I have sleeping and missed those bargains...….
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
Op.
I have used and owned both the Dynavector P3 mk3 and various Graham Slee models.

As you just acknowledged the Slee cater for mm carts only ( on their lower tier models) where a homc will work obviously.

Out of those pair I think the Slee was more dynamic in its presentation although the outboard PS which the P3 lacks may have accounted for some of that.

By all accounts the P3 mk4 is not a massive change over the mk3 so sonic signature should be similar.

And a huge nod yes to a Nagoaka cart, I bought the mp150 and was/ am very impressed for the cost
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
Great work on doing your homework!

Yes the ph10 new is out of your budget but used is in and you could upgrade later with the PS if you felt like it was needed.

I am long time user of Ayre amps, first a Ax7e and now the qx8 so have used the ph10 through both of those amps.

But if new and getting a demo is high on your list then the ph10 is out for sure.

The phenomena II has a great rep but it's not one I have heard.

Always tough but if you do go used your 1k will buy a LOT more phono than new.
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
Consider a Gold Note PH10 phono.
Adjustment for just about everything on the fly from the front panel.
Can connect 2 separate carts if required.
Has massive gain capability so down the road you could investigate really low output MC carts.
$1600 new, a few used around at right on 1k. I sold mine for $999 and only changed as I fancied playing with a tube phono stage.
Highly recommended!
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