What's a better choice? Manley Steelhead Phono or Audio Research Reference 2SE Phono?


I would like your opinions and rational please.  I currently have the Manley BUT have an opportunity to pick up the AR

                           BTW I am a soundstage freak!  I would sacrifice for a holographic stage!

Gear I'm using:
Audio Research REF 5se Pre
Bryston 28b sst2 Amps
Thorens TD 125LB with Ortofon per Winfeld Ti and A95 Carts
Goldenear Reference Speakers...

Ag insider logo xs@2xrikintpa

Showing 1 response by lewm

Steelhead has 3 pairs of phono inputs, not just 2.  If that matters.  If balanced output is important to you, I would check whether the AR unit has a true balanced output or just a balanced out derived from its inherently SE circuitry.  In the latter case, the balanced outputs may actually be inferior to the SE outputs, for absolute fidelity.