The Pass would be among the most neutral of the solid state choices and would not be expected to add anything to the sound except gain. You would lose the contribution of "tube sound" from the Cary phono preamp, but you clearly already enjoy the benefits of tube sound via the other amplification components in your electronics chain. Some of these benefits, like soft clipping, are more associated with the power amp anyhow. It should be worth a try -- buy and sell on Audiogon.
Tube vs. Solid State Phono Stage
So, I've always had toob amplification; mostly SET. Upstream, I have analog vinyl only. In keeping with my philosophy, point of view, style, whatever you want to call it, I've felt compelled to go with an all tube phono stage:
Cary PH302.
In summary, this has 55db gain, tubed rectification, RIAA equalization and gain stages.
I have no complaints.
However, I can't help notice that some, what seem to gennerally be considered, as world class phonoo stages are solid state.
In my price range, I'm at least thinking about what a Pass Xono would add to my system.
Any insight or opinions?
thanx
Cary PH302.
In summary, this has 55db gain, tubed rectification, RIAA equalization and gain stages.
I have no complaints.
However, I can't help notice that some, what seem to gennerally be considered, as world class phonoo stages are solid state.
In my price range, I'm at least thinking about what a Pass Xono would add to my system.
Any insight or opinions?
thanx