Last time I heard a budget Pro-Ject phono stage, I thought it was pretty bad. In fact I think the model you have is even lower than what I heard (though it was several years ago). I’d suspect even that budget AT cartridge can do much better; that current phono stage is quite possibly the weak link. Try a Hagerman Bugle 3, it’s really affordable at $185 and sounds good! That leaves money to upgrade other stuff in the meantime. Then later, you can go for a big cart & phono stage upgrade together, when you're ready.
Phono stage or pre Amp? which is most important.
Hi
I've just got back into vinyl after many years of digital music listening. Bought my myself a cheap turntable(Linn Basik, Akito arm, AT 95e Cartridge) and a project phonobox e phono stage. Just wondering how important the phono stage is compared to the amps it's going into. I know the project is only a £50 box so just wondering what next step up would be. My pre is a NAC 202 with NAPSC, Power is NAP 200, speakers CM6 s2. Is the Naim Stageline worth the money or is there a more budget friendly step up.
Cheers
I've just got back into vinyl after many years of digital music listening. Bought my myself a cheap turntable(Linn Basik, Akito arm, AT 95e Cartridge) and a project phonobox e phono stage. Just wondering how important the phono stage is compared to the amps it's going into. I know the project is only a £50 box so just wondering what next step up would be. My pre is a NAC 202 with NAPSC, Power is NAP 200, speakers CM6 s2. Is the Naim Stageline worth the money or is there a more budget friendly step up.
Cheers