This topic has been started before by others and myself as well, maybe too many times, but it is worth revisiting since the source is so very important! So far I have had the pleasure to enjoy two worthy phono stages: the EAR 834p and the JLTI. I have to admit they are spectacular. Obviously the record and all the equipment downstream play a role in the sound heard. In some cases I prefer the JLTI and in other cases the EAR. But neither out do the other dramatically. What phono preamps outshine others by a big margin, those that can be considered the last phono preamp ever needed.
The Zanden is set with a gain of about 34dB. It was designed for the higher output of mm cartridges. Mike Fremer used it to good effect with low-output mc units by adding a step-up transformer. IIRC cheers apo
Shsohis: sshhh! :) I have my eye on one such. Prices on them con=me and go in cycles it seems, and Smurf's Up. I'm waiting patiently for one with two full chassis at a good price. A month ago someone dumped one for $1500. I missed it by MINUTES!! cheers apo
Pedrillo, the closest I've heard (of) as the be-all, end-all phono stage would be the Boulder 2008. Better hock the Bugatti though. Vendetta Research ( of CTC Blowtorch fame) have received rave reviews. cheers apo
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