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Stand out phono stages

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.
pedrillo

Showing 3 responses by dcarol

dcarol
62 posts
 
Just got the new Whest PS.30RDT Special Edition.

This is my favorite. Ultra quiet at 65dB, all discrete with a superb wide, brilliant soundstage, absolutely spot-on imaging and musical to boot.
Compared it to an Audio Research PH7 and the PS.30RDT Special Edition killed it! No contest.

Using a Dynavector XV1-S with absolute blackness in the background! Wonderful. Just need a new cartridge now!
dcarol
62 posts
 
My new Whest Audio MC REF V MK4. By far the very best stage I have had the pleasure of having in my system - and believe me I have had a lot!

The unit is dynamic, detailed, has space and freaky reality and is utterly MUSICAL! and also works amazingly with the Ortofon A90, a match made in heaven.

4 thumbs up for the Whest.
dcarol
62 posts
 
I sold my Allnic H-3000 to move to the Whest Audio MC REF V MK4. The Whest is SOOO much better! The Allnic is just far too smooth like the other phono units in their range.

I suppose if you are into tubes it's a good buy, but it 'covers' over too much for my liking. I like a more realistic sound - wanna hear everything. I wrote a mini-review of the MC REF V Mk4 here a while back. I still haven't heard anything as good. I heard some very 'romantic' units but none so revealing.

Apparently the US distributor has been dropped and you can now buy Whest Audio direct with a full 5 year warranty. Best part...you can buy the B-graded units in 115vac! It was one of the things that I wanted to do when I was living in CA.
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