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 5 responses by rsf507

-No step-up transformers
-50/60 MM/MC roughly
-Parasound JC3 (really didn't like, noisy yes even though it was SS and very lean sounding..what was I thinking!!!!)
-No
-EMT

You have 15 more questions to reach your 20!
In the July issue of Stereophile he reviews and loves the NVO SPA phono stage. I've talked to the importer and they have sold 20 units, I'll have one on order by summers end.
I got the NVO PSA-One and couldn't be happier! Jeff Day has said it's the best he has ever heard in his own Blog and in his review of this unit in Positive Feedback. Try and have a listen yourself, there may be some very pricey used phono stages on Agon once heard!
No_regrets there's a guy somewhere on these forums that had some very highly regarded phono units like the ypsilon and zanden and sold them for the NVO, do a search but it was a year or so ago. The importer will tell you of another guy who sells hi-end gear that had the ypsilon and also thought the NVO was better in most regards, not a small feat!
A good buddy just placed an order for the new NVO se phono unit and there's almost a 3 month wait! They must be doing something right.