Suggestions for phono preamp for LOMC's


I am looking for a phono preamp that will work with LOMC cartridges.   Budget up to $2500 but would be quite happy spending significantly less.  I have about $10k invested in my table/arm so any appropriate suggestions would be appreciated.   New or used would be fine.

bobheinatz

Check out he recent thread on SUTs. There you will find mention of good high gain phono stages that are compatible with LOMC cartridges. Also I suggest you read up on “gain”, the meaning of db, etc, so you can calculate how much gain is enough for a given cartridge. That quantity also depends upon linestage gain, amplifier input sensitivity, and speaker efficiency. 
 

The TZ Vibe is a current driven device. Such devices work best with LOMC cartridges that also have a very low internal resistance, usually less than 10 ohms. So before you purchase a current driven phono (there are others besides the Vibe) be sure you want to limit yourself to compatible LOMC cartridges.

Nothing wrong with a gold note consideration. Can always upgrade it with separate PS. Lots of options also on the fly. 

I use a PS Audio Stellar phone pre with an Ortofon Quintet Black cartridge on a Technics SL-1200G TT.  I’m quite happy with that combination.  I may upgrade to a better cartridge, but I have no intention of changing my phono pre or TT.

PS Audio has a very good 30 day return policy. The Music Room has used ones for $1,899.  

I’ve used the Manley Chinook with my Sumiko Blackbird Lo with great results. It has very dark background and very adjustable. I have the same tubes it came with when I purchased it new in 2018 and no desire to change them out, still sounds really nice.