Well in that price range there are plenty of good choices. But, if I had your $3000 to spend I would definatly be looking for an Herron VTPH2, or an Aesthetix Rhea then do a little valve shopping. The Rhea is beautiful, the Herron, not so much. At that performance level you cant lose, so me I would choose the Rhea. I have an Innersound phono stage that's a great piece, on the used market its half the price of those two and they are only marginally better, or just a bit different. But, if I had the budget I would like to have one of those two as I am a big fan of valves. Good luck on your journey!
recommendations of phono preamps < $3000 range
Been obsessing over trying to select a new phono pre .... could use some insights / experience etc. and then some dealers to contact.
At this point I think I have the list down to either a Sutherland 20/20 or the Parasound JC3+.... was looking hard at the Whest 30RDT SE but it seems to be a little out of my price range and none on the used market.
I am currently using a well modified Jolida JD9, and have rolled quite a few tubes through it.
I want a phono pre that is more detailed / articulate, images better... don't care if it is tube or electronic.
Thanks for your thoughts and opinions Jim
At this point I think I have the list down to either a Sutherland 20/20 or the Parasound JC3+.... was looking hard at the Whest 30RDT SE but it seems to be a little out of my price range and none on the used market.
I am currently using a well modified Jolida JD9, and have rolled quite a few tubes through it.
I want a phono pre that is more detailed / articulate, images better... don't care if it is tube or electronic.
Thanks for your thoughts and opinions Jim