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Which to upgrade first: Turntable or Phono Preamp

Hi, I just recently got back into vinyl about 8 months ago after switching to digital 30+ years ago.  My current setup is as follows:
 - Pro-ject Classic Turntable
 - Hana ML cartridge
 - Vincent PHO 701 phono preamp

I'm very happy with the Hana, but am thinking about upgrading either the turntable or the phono stage.   Although I'm not entirely unhappy with the current setup.   Just going through some upgrade fever I guess.   The question I have is which one do you think I should upgrade first:  Turntable or the Phone stage?

I'm thinking about the Clearaudio Concept turntable and the PS Audio Stellar phono stage, but I'm open to suggestion.   I'm hoping to spend under 3k on either.

Anyway, the real question is whether anyone thinks which upgrade will give me more bang for the buck: Turntable or Phono stage?

Thanks very much in advance.
128x128xcool

Showing 1 response by grk

grk
207 posts
 
Hmm...tough call. The Vincent phono has received a lot of praise, especially for the price. Your TT may be the "weakest" link. Getting a new phono stage would be easier though, since you wouldn't have to remount your cartridge. Try the PS Audio with their 30-day audition period and find out if it makes a big enough difference. Also in your budget are models from Modwright, Tavish Audio Design and the Gold Note PH-10.
For turntables, the Well Tempered Simplex MKII. Amadeus MKII, and some EAT TT models are also within you budget and are well reviewed. Good luck!
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