Suggestions for phono preamp for LOMC's

@ bobheinatz

If I were in the market for a Phono-Pre, I would ask for advice, read reviews and make a SHORT LIST OF UNITS TO DEMO.

Because the transducer (cartridge) feeds the phono-pre, it may even more important to  to demo phono-preamps than line-stages and amps (yes, these are also demo-ing, if possible).

That being said, I am very happy with my Zesto Andros, which I have had for many years (I have no affiliation).  In fact, I may upgrade to a newer Andros version in 2025. 

You should be able to find a good, used Andros in your stated budget.  Add $150 for four new tubes, and you should be satisfied for many years to come.

Best of luck with the search.

@lewm 

Good question.  The Phono 70 has 70 db of gain and it is my understanding that it is not a good match for anything >.5mV output.  The designer of the unit stated it was specifically designed for LOMCs, primarily in the .2 mV to .5 mV range.

With my prior phono preamp I had to crank the volume up fairly high to achieve a reasonable volume level with my .2mV Ortofon cartridge.  Not so much anymore.

Great suggestions from everyone.   I am researching all options listed here.  Thank you very much.  Keeping them coming. 

Not enough gain is often a problem with the lowest output of LOMCs, like less than 0.3mV @ 5cm/sec.  However, I cannot recall ever having a problem with too much gain, if we restrict the discussion to LOMC cartridges and MC inputs. And what most forget is to add in any gain from an active linestage.

Another Allnic recommendation here. Their new step up transformer uses silver windings, which is an audible enhancement.