2. amps-preamps
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Preamp questions for new vinyl fan

Hello all,
I'm purchasing a Parasound Halo A23 amp to drive Gallo Stradas. I have a chance to get a Consonance Cyber 222 tube preamp for a very nice price. But it doesn't have phono inputs and I'm really starting to enjoy vinyl. I could go ahead anyway and get a separate phono stage, or do something altogether different.
I would love to run fully balanced and have tube rectification, as I love the tube sound and staging, but it needs phono stage too. It would sweeten the SS amp and help with my digital setup
Any suggestions. I'm trying to stay around $500 or less.

Thanks!
Lincoln
lincnabby

Showing 2 responses by truman

truman
168 posts
 
I think the idea of injecting some tubes into the mix with the Consonance (especially at a great price...?) is worth a shot. Stick with a decent SS phono for now given your budget restraints. Recently saw a $450 PS Audio GCPH
Phono on audiogon, great deal! Or, have heard very good things about the Ifi Phono for even less (long break-in I've also heard).
truman
168 posts
 
Shoot, there's a Quicksilver Full Function Tube preamp with tube rectification
plus a darn good tube MM phono for $450 on auction right now! Not balanced, but....(Disclosure, I once had 4 of these! Still have two. Love 'em.)
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