Solid state phono/linestage vs Tubes


I have had different combinations of phono stages and line preamps, but have never had a full combination of solid state. Currently I have an Aesthetix Calypso and a Rhea Signature feeding into a couple of Krell EV-600's. I prefer a warmer sound and have always believed tubes were the avenue to that sound. With tubes, there's a certain amount of tube rush, but because I mainly listen to progressive jazz and older rock, I don't need a "dead quite" system, and once the music starts, the tube rush is masked. I have a Theta Casablanca with supreme boards just sitting around and am going to run the Rhea through the Theta, but I think I will still get the tube rush sound from the Rhea. There's also the problem of incompatibility with Theta remote sensors and Aesthetix remotes. (admittedly once the Rhea is set, there is no reason to need the remote and the Rhea remote sensor can be masked) I know with classical music, one prefers the dead quite, because there are so many passages that require absolutely no floor noise. Anyway, I'm asking for recommendations for a solid state phono stage and line stage under 10K.
My front end is a Scoutmaster with either a Dynavector DRT XV-1S, or a Urishi Black Cart; speakers are Wilson Maxx II's.
handymann

Showing 1 response by analogluvr

Ralph's phono is supposed to be exceptional(ive never heard one but trust those who say so). I have tried a rhea signature with a Jim mcshane premuim tube set and was completely underwhelmed. It also had some tube noise so probably that is common to the unit. I tried it the same time as the zesto and the Herron and those 2 really outclassed it. The zesto had a bit of a mid hall presentation with the Herron putting you up in the front row.   The rhea was very dark sounding without the same level of inner detail. The other 2 were dead quiet. 
I ended up buying the Herron and have never looked at photos since.