Phono stage shoot out: best mid priced unit?

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.

The Sutherland 20/20 with LPS gives me exceptionally clean, clear, smooth dynamic sound.  Perfect synergy with my tube preamp and solid state amp.  

Whether running an Audio Technica ART9, Ortofon Cadenza Blue or Lyra Delos the sound is exceptional.  

I have a Pass XP-15 and a Manley Chinook.  The Chinook is pretty dynamic and has nice detail and is quiet.  The XP-15 hasn't seen much use since I got my Herron VTPH-2A, but it's a very good phono stage.  Lots of drive and very quiet.

The Chinook only has 2 gain settings and you have to remove the top to change them.  The XP-15 has all the gain and loading settings on the back which is more convenient, unless you don't have access to the back.

If I was forced to choose one, I would probably keep the XP-15 for its flexibility, but I might give the Chinook a little bit of an edge in sound quality.  It would be a tough choice, they are both very good.

Neither are in the same league as the Herron VTPH-2A.  If you can find a pre-owned VTPH-2A, grab it.  I have no experience with any of the others mentioned.

Anybody ever compare any of these to the Nagra BPS? I've been wondering if I decided to sell mine and upgrade what would be worthwhile without spending a fortune. Cheers,

Spencer

I love my Tavish the classic. Running all NOS tubes with it, GE 12au7, RCA 7025 gray plate, and a Sylvania 5157 with disc getter....sounds good to me. The Tavish Adagio will be mine, someday. Scott is a great guy, very reachable and helpful. The Adagio uses transformers in the M/C section, similar to that of the Ear 834P, which I also own.

I haven't heard the Whest two but own the Whest three signature & it is great. Suspect the two would be as well. 

I was looking at all of the ones listed. I was almost going with the GN PH 10, I wound up trading my SPL Phonos which I thought was very good. I have the Modwright PH9.0x on order. I should get it hopefully before the new year.

@bobbydd I haven't heard all your listed units but have listened to the Manley which was very nice, full sounding but to my ears not as detailed or extended top end. Still something to have a listen. Had the Parasound JC3 and didn't care for it at all. To noisy and had no meat on the bones. I do have the GN PH-10 and it's matching PSU-10 and just love it. One of the most versatile phono units especially at its price. Sonically is detailed and extended on top but maybe not the tightest bottom end but not off by much.

Happy Listening and keep us informed what you listen to and your own thoughts