2. amps-preamps
  3. 1332026632

VAC Owners:Outboard Phono Stage?

I'm contemplating my next upgrade. Thought you guys could help.

I spin mostly vinyl. I have a great analogue front end that feeds a VAC Standard LE pre and VAC PHI 200 amp, both of which I love. The MC stage on the pre is really good, but a little noisy (hiss). Kevin is sending me new 12AX7s that Brent will test for very low noise at the VACtory. Those guys just rock!

My question, however, is how much do I need to spend on an outboard MC phono stage if I want a significant upgrade to the already wonderful sound of the built-in stage?

I know, why don't I just enjoy the wonderful sound? Because it's upgrade time, baby! There will always be a next level (we really need a 12 step group for this hobby).

I'm looking at the Zesto Andros ($3900), the Herron VTPH-2 ($3700), and possibly the new Manley Chinook ($2200).

Ideally, I could audition these in my system, but the nearest dealer is far away, so I'll have to order one.

Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks,
Alón (no, not Wolf)
alonski

Showing 2 responses by clio09

clio09
3,370 posts
 
We used the Zesto phonostage in our room at THE SHOW Las Vegas this year and will most likely have it in Newport. I think if you are looking for an external phonostage and the price is in your budget, this one has to be on your audition list. It is an outstanding unit and while I did not do a side by side comparison, I certainly preferred it over the Fosgate. Then again, in a side by side comparison the Fosgate was inferior to a newly designed Music Reference phonostage.

If that Hagerman Trumpet is still advertised on here you might want to take a look at it. A real giant killer. Also, another of my favorite phonostages is the one from K&K Audio.

All that being said, if the internal VAC phonostages are that good, why complicate things with another box and set of cables?
clio09
3,370 posts
 
I was not doing my own thing at Newport last year, but assisting Concert Fidelity. This year I will be exhibiting with Fritz Speakers and WyWires. As I indicated we plan on using the Zesto again. We'll be using a Concert Fidelity refurbished Denon DP-3000 with Denon arm and B&O MMC-2 cartridge for the rest of the analog set up. By all means look us up and stop in for a listen.
More to discover