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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
403 responses Add your response
daniele_g
81 posts
 
I have not enough experience to state which is the best phonostage, but I love my Klyne 6PE.
if you can suggest some model that can better it under 2k$ (used is ok), you are welcome.
I'm very curious about Herron and obviously Klyne series 7, but they are not imported in Italy where I live and it would be too expensive to buy them overseas and have it shipped here.
I'm curious about Parasound JC3+ too, but -though it is imported- it is quite difficult to find used (and new it is way too expensive to me).
wspohn's avatar
wspohn
604 posts
 
The one that blew me away and ended my search for phono stage nirvana was the fairly rare John Curl designed Vendetta.  I've listened to more modern units but have yet ti find one I'd swap my SCP - 2T for.

Apparently he only made around 200 of them and if you ever see one, jump on it as you'll probably not get another chance.
portoalegre's avatar
portoalegre
22 posts
 
Has anyone listened to Van Den Hul The Grail SB phono preamp?
Any comparision with Conrad Johnson TEA-2?
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