Phono Stage in LUXMAN - CL-38uC

Back in the Days of Yore the Audio Critic reviewed the original CL-38 and gave it a "good" rating.

I have a Luxman CL-38uC, and a Luxman CL-35 III (which was reviewed by Audio Critic in issue 1 (1977). The Audio Critic review is irrelevant with regard to the CL-38Uc.

The Luxman CL-35 III is better than good, When I heard it recently compared to an Audio Research SP-3A, I and others listening preferred the Luxman CL-35 III.

In my system the Luxman CL-38uC replaced an Aesthetix Calypso/Rhea, and I think it sounds better than the Aesthetix equipment it replaced.

Compared to CL-35 III the imaging is better, including a larger more defined sound stage, and blacker background. A synergistic combination with the rest of my gear. My system is posted so you can see it here on Audiogon.

I have not heard the Manley Chinook phono stage so I don't know how it compares to the Luxman, but I did like the Luxman better than the Aesthetix Rhea.

JPerry,  That’s great intel.  Thank you for taking a few moments to explain this background you have with this preamp. 
The phono preamp sounds competitive. 

@jperry ,  So I was reading up on your Aesthetix Rhea. That is a phono pre that could even replace my beloved Manley Chinook.  That sonic signature (from what I am reading) is up my alley.  It makes me think I wouldn't be let down by the Luxman.  Thank you Sir. 

@jbhiller 

You are welcome. If you look at my system you will see that the TT setup requires a very good phono stage to show its capabilities. 

I looked at your system, and noticed we have have a cartridge in common. I have a Kiseki Purpleheart (Sapphire) in my cartridge stable. Nice cartridge.

Wishing you the best in your search.

Jim Perry 

@jperry , Your system is fantastic!  

I'm thinking we'd have a lot in common as I noticed bottles of Weller and Kirkland bourbon in your closet! :)

@
If you are in Phoenix, AZ let me know

Will do Sir!!!

I have the Luxman CL38U SE which has the same phonons the C. I sold my Parasound JC3+ phono and went w/the Luxman internal tube phono. It has 4 sut's. two for MC low and two for MC high. Currently I'm using a Dynavector Karat 17DX cart w/my TT. My TT is the Luxman PD-171A. Feels like I have a whole new record collection. By the way it took about 75-100 hours for the phono tubes to burn in to full song.

@luxmancl38,  Your namesake is awesome!

Ok, this is good info.  I'm very tempted now.  I need to sell some stuff to fund this purchase though. 

I am intrigued by that SUT topology inside the preamp.   If it can compete with my Manley Chinook this is a done deal.  Maybe I should bite the bullet and find out.