If I was in the market I would look at a used Audio Research PH8 or PH7… or the best you can afford. I have had many ARC phono stages over the last 40 years as I was able to afford better and they got better. Phono stages and preamps are the first thing I think of when I think of ARC. Keeping one from decades is not uncommon. Phono stages are so important in getting the most out of vinyl it is worth a very high level of investment.
Phono stage shoot out: best mid priced unit?
OK am curious what the experience is with the following phono stages:
Tavish Audio Design Adagio
Gold Note PH10 with PSU 10 power supply
Manley Chinook
Whest Two.2
Pass XP12
Parasound JC3+
Sutherland 20/20
Priorities are: sound quality, flexibility and adjustability with differing cartridges, low noise, and overall quality. I left out the Herron VTPH2a as it's out of production.
Of note I've purchased an EAT Petit, which for $1500 seemed like a good choice, but I'm wondering if spending a little more is the wiser choice. The new Hegel V10 is also about the same price, but too new to know anything about it.
Thanks!