https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfpJYJv3ddo
Manley Chinook Features and Specifications
Tube Phono Stage
Add this to the can! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfpJYJv3ddo Manley Chinook Features and Specifications |
Taking a look at both models, I would go for the Tavish. No need for another "box" like the Decware, since you need more gain. Looks like youll have to wait awhile until they get their inventory situation resolved first. Have you checked out the Parks Budgie? Another value tube phono. With a step up, under $800. The ONLY thing I don't care for with any of them is, they LOOK like DIY projects. When my spending is approaching 1k+, I want whatever to look appealing AND sound good. As mentioned by Yogiboy, if you can up your budget, the Manley Chinook is very nice.There WAS one yesterday listed just a few bucks more than the Tavish. I demoed a Chinook to compare with my equally priced tubed phono. Very quiet and of course the tube magic that few SS units can approach. If I didn't have a tubed phono already, with a budget up to 2K , the Chinook would be on my list. |
I know I said I would leave it at that,..... but I took a look at the Tavish Design Adagio. I was impressed with their use of 5751s. That tube is a favorite of mine that I roll in many 12AX7 positions. In general they are quiet and have great imaging ability. It is pretty uncommon to find 5751s in commercial applications for some reason outside of Conrad Johnson who have used 5751s for decades. |
I have the Parks Budgie M/M version. It uses two 6922's class A, with a dip switch for a bunch of cart. loading options, and I think it sounds great for what little it costs. I don't think it's ugly or DIY- ish. But that's in the eye of the beholder. I do have a question for all you guys. Do you really hear an easily heard, and I mean big improvement, in the sound in a phono amp going from current production Russian 6922 tubes to any of the vaunted new old stock 6922 tubes ? I don't want to pay around 90.00 hard earned $ a pair for NOS tubes and hear no big change ! Thanks. |
To throw in another suggestion, I have used a K&K Audio phono stage for I think 10 years. I have upgraded the turntable and never felt the need to improve the Phono stage. It comes In kit form, but Kevin arranged for mine to be built. He regularly comes up with upgrade kits at a very reasonable price, which make a real difference. I recommend you like at his website and perhaps speak to him, he is very helpful. |
First of, you are assuming that all bad stuff which bothering you is coming from phono, which might or might not be so. It might come from the cartridge/arm/TT /preamp, cables etc., on the first place. I would try different (darker, better) cartridges and cables first. Then you’ll have to bring your perspective phono home and test it with your cartridge/arm/TT/pre/speakers etc., in your listening room)))). Unfortunately there is no substitute for that, the rest is just gambling. Moreover, to pic a really the best of the pack you’ll have to keep all of them for some time and switch from one to another back and forth until you finally hear the micro nuances which sets them a part. But even if you’ll be able to do all of the above, it is absolutely no guaranty that you’ll choose the right one)). Thats the name of the game. P.S. To me, the uglier the look of the chase the better, because I’m not wasting money onto B.S. aluminum boxes and LED lights. I prefer better performing parts inside. Only the sound matters. ;~) |
Thanks guys, I never thought the sound of the OEM EH 6922 was bad. Nothing jumps out at me, brittle highs, weak bass etc. It's just I have no basis for comparison. FWIW, Keven Deal from up scale audio gave high marks for the new EH 6922, but he's in business to sell tubes. Shannon Parks is a real nice guy. He always answers my emails about the Budgie. I think I may be better served putting the money for NOS tubes towards adding to my record collection. I think sometimes we go nuts over the gear and forget about the music ! That's what all this is about in the end. Cheers |
No I don't own any. It is a cryo protocol with time spent at minus 80. I understand from the Encyclopedia Britannica that this alters the atomic relation ship between metal molecules by creating extra long copper crystals. Copper is being used for illustration. This arrangement minimizes the number of crystal interfaces and thus better conductivity and speed of reaction, between the now minimized number molecules in any specified action. It's benefits make it sound like a panacea, a cure for slow hand speed and any other problem one may have. Too tired to flesh this out . If anyone can make an argument for his methods then expand and please edit. But please keep it factual. Good Night |