The Kairn is a wonderful preamp. I have no experience with the built in phonostage, although I understand that it is quite good. I don't think that you could go wrong with one, and it would definitely improve your system. I thought the Kairn was a tremendous improvement over the Wakonda, and it should be an even greater improvement over the Majik preamp section. With the current "fire sale" prices for the Kairn, you could get a line level only model and a good outboard phonostage for a very reasonable price.
Preamps - Kairn and others
Thinking about a preamp w/ phono upgrade. I am using my Linn Majik as a preamp into a Van Alstine Super70i (ST-70 makeover). Convenience and ergonomics are important in this living room, family system. E.g., need remote control; balance controls (tho not two separate volume knobs) are a plus. Need quality phono section. Cripes, I would like a good headphone section, too, but that would be taking this convenience thing too far. I like the Majik’s preamp performance -- real high-value performance (moreso than the amp section, I believe), so I am entertaining upgrading to a Kairn.
I’d welcome comments on the Kairn’s phono stage and other attributes and also suggestions for other used, full-featured preamps in the same price range (let’s say 800-1300). What I most want from the preamp sonically are pace and quickness, quietness/blackness, the kind of detail that gives harmonic richness and “air”. I don’t want forward presentation or warmth, and I don’t particularly need strength in the soundstaging department. Solid state or tube is okay, as long as it’s reliable and not fussy.
As far as music, I listen pretty broadly and don’t want to optimize for one type (but I can cough up more info if you want). The system is made up of Linn Karik III; Rega Planar 3, OL RB250, Dynavector 10x4Mkii; Neuance shelves under sources; Majik; AVA Super70i; and DeCapo 3As.
I’ve reviewed the archives and will appreciate any input you can provide on my situation. Thank, Jayson
I’d welcome comments on the Kairn’s phono stage and other attributes and also suggestions for other used, full-featured preamps in the same price range (let’s say 800-1300). What I most want from the preamp sonically are pace and quickness, quietness/blackness, the kind of detail that gives harmonic richness and “air”. I don’t want forward presentation or warmth, and I don’t particularly need strength in the soundstaging department. Solid state or tube is okay, as long as it’s reliable and not fussy.
As far as music, I listen pretty broadly and don’t want to optimize for one type (but I can cough up more info if you want). The system is made up of Linn Karik III; Rega Planar 3, OL RB250, Dynavector 10x4Mkii; Neuance shelves under sources; Majik; AVA Super70i; and DeCapo 3As.
I’ve reviewed the archives and will appreciate any input you can provide on my situation. Thank, Jayson
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