2. amps-preamps
  3. 195782-205219

thoughts on adding phonostage

Thinking of adding a phonostage/upgrade cartridge on current set up;
EAT b sharp turntable
rogue audio cronus magnum iii
goldenear T66 floor speakers
KimberKable ascent 8tc speaker wire and PBJ interconnect.

currently I have a ortofon bronze 2M cartridge.   will upgrade to EAT jo no.5 , Hana ML or ortofon MC quintent bronze depending on best price etc. excited to actually hear the difference as i think the set up sounds pretty good right now.  

question is, thoughts on phonostage? the cronus magnum iii has a built in MM/MC phonostage, woudl it be overkill? and do i pair the phono to the rogue audio, or to the EAT turntable, or can I go with another brand?

 

pmzn

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
10,509 posts
 

Given what you’re looking for my mind immediately went to the Liberty Audio B2B-1 phono pre.  I reviewed their B2B-100 amp that was outstanding and also had the qualities you’re looking for, and I think this review captures their sonic house sound and the phono pre’s character well (there are also a couple Stereophile reviews).

https://positive-feedback.com/Issue52/liberty.htm

They sell direct so you’re getting a lot of quality for the $ from one of the top minds in audio (Peter Noerbaek of PBN Audio), and I believe they offer a 14-day trial period.  Just one idea FWIW, and best of luck. 

soix
10,509 posts
 

The phono pre is critical and well worthy of an upgrade, and you can use any brand that you think aligns best with your tastes/goals/system.  If you share what specific improvements you’re looking for and what sound characteristics are most important to you along with budget and if you’re looking for new or used you’ll get good recommendations here.  You might also post this in the Analog section to maybe get some more focused responses.  Hope this helps, and best of luck. 

More to discover