2. amps-preamps
  3. 184488-38070

WhestTHREE signature phono pre vs. ModWright PH 9.0X

I've mostly got my phono preamp upgrade down to a shortlist shootout choice between the WhestTHREE and the ModWright PH 9.0X. They're pretty much at the same price point (the MW is ~$300 more than the whest, give or take). 

What I listen to mostly: Jazz & Jazz Fusion primarily (I do have things from many other genres, but want to tune my system to Jazz since that's 95% of my listening on vinyl).

What I like: wide soundstage, incredible mid-range, detail, some warmth

What I don't like: clinical! 

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There are a lot of passionate Whest owners out there all over forums raving about them, but I've also seen people mention that they can be a little on the clinical side. 

The modwright has less hands-on info out there that I could find, but the few things I could find review it very highly. 

If owners of either could comment on their experience and some objective pros / cons of either, it would be helpful! 

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I did have someone recommend the Gold note PH10 to me some time ago, and while it is at a lower price point, I've seen a lot of mixed reviews. 

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Showing 3 responses by paulietunes

paulietunes
62 posts
 

I have not demoed the Whest or the MW but I have done a home demo of the Gold Note PH-10.  I was looking for pretty much the same sound signature you’re seeking.  
 

The GN is a fantastic phono stage, very well built, excellent UI and great detail without brightness.  In the end, it wasn’t quite the sound signature I was looking for and I’m guessing that would apply to you as well.  I would have no hesitation recommending the GN to someone who was seeking that kind of sound signature. 
 

I ended up with a used Aesthetix Rhea Signature and it does have what you’re looking for.  I would highly recommend checking one out.  Excellent service as well by their folks in California.  

paulietunes
62 posts
 

@lalitk Exactly!  One of the wonderful things about a forum like this is that another audiophile may recommend a product that is entirely appropriate but not on the OP's radar.  That's how we learn!

When I was researching phono stages a few months ago, I had never even heard of the brand Aesthetix until it was brought to my attention in a forum.  I do agree that posts can often have unrelated tangents but all of the replies above are well within the original topic and specific to the OP's request for feedback.

paulietunes
62 posts
 

I think he was looking for some honest feedback about any of the products he mentioned or that fit the sound signature he outlined in his post.  @winoguy17 why do you go out of your way to stoke division?

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