I’ve the black ice audio F159 which is a hybrid SS / tube preamp, totally transformed my phono side of my system. I run ML electrostatics and the dynamics are definitely there but also wonderful midrange and bass. I had a rather average cartridge that sounded unimpressive with the built in phono preamp in my preamp and it became impressive immediately.
upgraded to the Hana ML MC and damn….
Tube or solid state phono stage?
I have a high end all tube system (AR 750 SEL amps, AR Ref 6 preamp, SF Aida speakers) and am now adding a turntable with a Benz cartridge.. Should I stick with buying a tube phono stage or go with solid state? I’d like to keep my system all tube but I’m worried a tube phono stage may make the vinyl too warm sounding and not dynamic enough.
thanks in advance for any help!