2. analog
  3. 164830-77412

Phono Stage, How much do I need to spend, New or used.

Hello all, I need some opinions on Phono stages. I currently have a VPI scoutmaster with a vessel MM R3SM cartridge and a Schiit  Mani phono stage. This set up just does not fill the room like my digital does, anyone have any opinions on what I need to do to make this happen. How much do I need to spend on a phone stage, new or used.
fusionout

Showing 2 responses by ozzy62

ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,329 posts
 
I think maybe the OP didn't communicate what he is hearing correctly. I don't think he is talking about SPL  or dynamics. Maybe he means referring more to the illusion of the soundstage filling the room? And that could just come down to the recording quality, no matter what the medium.

Again, just speculating.

Oz


ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,329 posts
 
That Mani really is your bottleneck. I have a friend with a Well Tempered Amadeus and Denon DL-103 who was using one. He replaced it with a Pro-Ject Phono Box RS (1000.00) and he says the difference was astounding. I would recommend my K&K Audio Maxxed Out phono stage (~2500.00) but I believe it is no longer in production. I have owned this one for over 20 years and it has been updated a few times. It's one piece that will probably outlive me.

So yes, a new phono stage will be a huge improvement over what you have.

Oz


More to discover