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Step up transformer or upgrade phono preamp?

So I’m looking to further develop my analog system. I currently have a vpi Aries scout with a jmw9 tonearm and a Soundsmith zephyr MIMC star going into a Vincent pho 701. I enjoy the sound I’m getting but I am constantly looking for “better”. More dynamics, higher resolution etc. I know my phono pre is the weak link in that lineup and I’m wanting to upgrade. So what are your thoughts? Upgrade the phonostage or invest into a separate SUT? 
james1911

Showing 2 responses by chakster

chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
I hope you can borrow a SUT to try if you want, or even a phono stage. 

You can always buy more different cartridges if you are looking for you type of sound. A cartridge that actually work without external SUT or Headamp, because some of them cost more than a better cartridge!




chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
James, you need friends (audiophiles) in real life or dealers who can loan you gear to try. Remember that your line level preamp also have gain (if it’s not passive). When you add SUT you connect it to MM input. Headamp can ne better than SUT, for example ZYX CPP-1 headamp is agood alternative to any SUT. 

I prefer solid state phono stages, tubes are noisy, microphonic and they do not last forever. I can’t recommend tube phono stages. 
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