Schiit Mani 2

Missed the original post of this thread.

I used the Mani 1. Great unit.

Looks like the current price hasn't been adjusted beyond ridiculous too. Good on Schiit Audio for making the Mani even "better."

"BEST" phono amp IMO up to....$3-500? Maybe more? Perfect for those not "all in" for a substancial LP playback setup.

I have no experience with the Mani 1.  But I bought a Mani 2 for a family member as an upgrade to the built in phono pre on an Audiolab 6000A integrated.  Trying it in my own system with an AudioTechnica AT 150Sa MM cartridge and the Mani 2 totally cold out of the box, there is no denying it is a great phono pre for the money.  Detailed, fast, quiet, with a decent soundstage between the speakers.  And the bass is remarkably deep and accurate.  I would say the presentation is neutral, just presenting the facts.  

The Mani 2 is hands down the best deal in new budget audio gear I have seen.  Period.  Wonder how good it will be once it is run in a bit.  While I did not fiddle with different cartridges or settings, for use with a decent MM cart it is terrific.  Highly recommended.

Wow, no other comments? Tough room!

I use the built-in MM phono pre-amp in my Rega Elicit-R. However, based on the review linked below, I would be buying this new Schiit Mani 2 if I needed a budget phono pre-amp. Seems like a tremendous value.