2. amps-preamps
  3. 152630-4635

Phonostage Advice

I own a Modwright LS100 with an internal phono board. Do you believe that adding a dedicated phonostage would provide significant improvement? My budget is $1500  and I am not sure if spending that much will get me something better. I own a VPI Classic II with a Dynavector 20X2L. Thanks in advance.
jimbones

Showing 8 responses by jimbones

jimbones OP
261 posts
 
One 12AX7 and one 12AU7 for 63db. doesn’t appear to lack dynamics, but then again I havent compared so maybe I dont know what I am missing lol.
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
wow looks to be unanimous. I do have a buddy locally with a JC3 and an EAR to compare to mine. Thank you so much for your recommendations.
Interesting I have a M&K Realtime LP and when I play it, it appears to be clipping. I thought the singer was over driving the Mic. Could it be my Pre??
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
I agree millercarbon. It wasn't until this discussion that I realized that it may be by electronics. Realtime records are very dynamic.It's a male opera and the guys voice booms!! 

jimbones OP
261 posts
 
@millercarbon my cartridge is definitely not mistracking. i am familiar with that very specific sound. This kind of a flattening of the volume during peaks with "no distortion" lol.
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
OK so I demoed the PS Audio Stellar, the JC3+  against my LS100. Both were better. In terms pf preference I liked the Stellar the best. Brought out emotion in the music and incredible bass control. The LS100 was flatter and bass was not as defined.
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
Oh yes the stellar was very good. I would not say it was an "OMG" moment but certainly better. I am told there is a BHK pre as well.....

jimbones OP
261 posts
 
negative, the BHK is a pre only no phono
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
revisiting my topic, I think I will rule out a Tube MC preamp strictly on noise basis. I am thinking solid state will be quieter and more consistent
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