Tube preamp with or without phono stage?


I’m looking to add a preamp to my two channel system. Currently I’m using an Audio Alchemy DDP-1 as the pre fed by a Simaudio Moon 110LP as the phonostage. My amp’s a Benchmark AHB-2 and speakers are Paradigm Persona 3F. The Personas and Benchmark are recent purchases and I’m rebuilding backwards. I’ve been targeting a clear, detailed, neutral and dimensional soundstage. Very low noise and distortion.

I’d now like to add a tube preamp and have a few questions. What are the pros and cons of the phonostage built into the pre vs as a separate? My amp only has balanced in’s but I can use an XLR to RCA adapter if necessary, are there any concerns with using the adapter? Finally, any recommendations up to about $3-5k with some flexibility?

Thanks
jszei

Showing 1 response by hddg

Hi jscei,
I have the Benchmark amps - I have paired them with several preamps, including very high end ones (Esoteric Grandioso C1), but the best association I have so far is with the Coincident Statement Line Stage, which has true balanced connects. You also have the model with the phonostage included. I have the one without phono, and using upgraded Psvane WE101D tubes. Absolutely fabulous. Never heard so much high and lows and beautiful mids, just an excellent combination of tube with transistor - it will enhance the qualities of the Benchmark (clear and detailed sound with enormous attack and dynamics) playing very close to a very high end system. In time, if you can add a second Benchmark bridged in monos, you would have total control of the speakers and added image/soundstage precision.