First of all at $1500-$2k involves a substantial compromise depending on the level of your system. With tube gear at this price point don't expect a jet black background. I have an Allnic H 1200 it was fine with my Valve Audio Predator but with my Esoteric A 03 and C 03 its a weak link in my system creating noticeable tube noise. IMO a SS phono preamp is the safer option at this price point.
You do not say what is wrong with the tavish....have you tried rolling some tubes into it? How about moving up to the Adagio by tavish? That one I think can be had for $2190. I think the Adagio was or is Herb Reichert’s reference phono stage. I use my tavish the classic with all NOS tubes, RCA, GE. And Sylvania. I also use it with a Jensen SUT running a Hana EL. Tavish just so happens to use Jensen sourced transformers In the M/C section of the Adagio. In both the vintage and the classic, you must use the MM section to fully make use of the tubes. The M/C section of both uses jfets to boost the low output of a M/C cartridge. Better to use an SUT into the M/M section, if you are using a moving coil. |
I am thoroughly enjoying my SPL Phonos. The folks at TMR will work with you.
https://tmraudio.com/shop-new/vinyl/phono-preamps/spl-phonos-phono-preamplifier-new-w-full-warranty/ |
Gold Note PH10 - amazing device with on the fly changes to equalization and cartridge settings for two different phono setups. I can't emphasize how great the equalization changes are - Decca, Columbia, and RIAA all sound quite different as laid down on the vinyl. You can then upgrade it down the road with the external PSU. |