Full-function/Phono-only vs. Line + Phono Stage?

While it is always a good idea to have less in your signal path, in my view, the problem is having both enough gain in the stand-alone unit for records cut at mid- to low levels (remember, the line stage is adding 12-20 db of gain) and a volume control that's convenient to use. I know that the Aesthetix IO at the high end of the price scale has this capability (a friend of mine who only listens to vinyl runs that setup), but I don't know about the EAR/Art Audio units. As an alternative, you could consider a full-function preamp such as Audible Illusions, the new ARC SP16 or used SP9, 10 or 11, or (if you can swing it) a Hovland or used Jadis JP80MC (or, of course, any older preamp that has a phono stage). That way you could avoid the extra box and interconnects and still get top quality sonics.

It's the age old set of questions. Can you get the quality you want in one package? Will you need the flexibility to improve one and keep the other? Is the phono stage going to be the weak link in the system? Can you get more value in used separates?

The EAR has a version with a volume control - you could get double duty on the cheap that way, as long as you don't need any other devices connected. There's some others with this feature too, at higher price points.

Enjoy,
Bob

I am a vinyl-only type person too. I have an Art Audio Vinyl One phono stage with volume control and I love it. It's warm, dynamic and full sound without lossing detail, very musical and not particularly analitical. Since I bought it, I have replaced the stock volume pot (Alps blue pot) with a TKD film pot. I actually wanted to get a TKD step attenuator but there isn't enough space for it unless I drill another hole in the front for it. The upgraded pot is much smoother. Overall this phono stage is very very good. It is way better than the EAR 834P. Now, I have only one dial to turn in my whole system. The sound is so pure and immediate, it's unbelievable. I have gone a full circle to come to realize the simpler the better. I've been in this crazy hooby for 20 years. I have tried tri-amping, bi-amping and now I am down to the most basic system. One thing about a stand alone phone, especially when partnered with Quad 63 speakers, is that it is like a mirrow, it shows everything. I had to replace interconnect and signal tubes to get it right. Everything you put in there shows. I tried different power cord with the Vinyl One and the one I ended using is the stock cord. It's much more natural than anything I have tried. The vinly One has 50dB for MM and 70 dB for MC. It should work with most caetridge. I use a Koetsu Rosewood Sig. with it. Also, I have tried it with a linestage, it is definitely better without better without a linestage. BTW, I am not in anyway related to Art Audio. Good Luck.
Regards
Borick

Furhter, the Vinyl take a long time to break in. It toke me 3 months to fully breaking it in. I suggest you wait for a used one to save some bucks. I have only seen 2 used ones at this site in the last 6 months and they both went within a day. So, keep watching for it.