2. analog
  3. 1016843413

Preamp-phonostage selection for analog lover

This is my first thread here. Maybe it should go on the amp/preamp board but I am hoping that analog lovers, like me, will have a specialized knowledge base and be gracious enough to provide me with some help.

I really, really like the sound of vinyl. Several months ago, I bought a VPI 16.5 and since then have cleaned about 1,500 of my older LP's. I have a very nice McCormack SS amp, a Clearaudio Champion TT with an average AT cartridge (that I will be replacing), and a pair of Aerial 8 floorstanders. I have been using a borrowed Lehmann Black Cube from a friend. The Cube is okay, but I want to buy my own different from the Cube. Now I want to buy a USED TUBE preamp and a phono stage or a combination pre/phono (I know most people like the separates but I would like to go combo if at all practical). I will, of course, be using the TT and also an older Sony analog tuner. I will be using a run-of-the-mill CD player from time to time, but a high quality digital front end is NOT important to me, nor is it in my future.

Can those of you with more recent experience than I in analog give me some recommendations that would match with this amp, TT, speaker combo. I am also open to cartridge choices. I would like to stay with a good MM for now but would like to have a phono stage with the flexibilty to use an MC in the future. Oh, yes, and I'd like to spend between 1200-1800US on USED component(s)(I prefer someone else to take the knock down, I refuse to buy new in this area)! Please try to suggest units that fall within my price range USED not new, Bang for my buck, you know... Maybe 500-750US on a NEW cartridge - this lot I refuse to buy used! HA)

Thank you
Barbara
lpspinner

Showing 1 response by grandpad

grandpad
151 posts
 
Barbara, since you opened the door for more propositions - oops, proposals - err, ideas, there's a Rogue 99 Magnum preamp being offered for sale in the classifieds for $1800. It's a great unit (and it does have a remote).

I'm not familiar with the specific ARC and C-J units others have mentioned, but these older units have the virtue of a cheaper price, hence more to spend on that cartridge or vinyl.

BTW, which tonearm are you using (I presume a Rega)? Prefer moving magnet cartridges or open to moving coils? Type of sound - highly resolved and detailed vs lush and warm? Burgundy or cabernet? Oops, did it again.

There are add-ons for tts that will automatically lift the tonearm at run-out, so you don't have stop and interrupt ... well, you know.

Sorry, but old grandpas get a little light headed when certain subjects are raised.
More to discover