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Opinions of Onkyo P-3000R phono preamp

I have had this unit for several years but only used it as a preamp for CD/sacd players and as a dac/preamp playing ripped flac files. It has served me well but over the last few months I've converted to balanced components so it's pretty much been collecting dust. Recently however I have ventured into vinyl again. Using the P-3000R built in phono preamp does sound very good to me but I don't have anything to compare it to. Just wondering if any of you have been able to compare it to other phono preamps in the sub $2,000 range. I am very interested in the Gold Note PH-10 with it having two turntable inputs and both balanced inputs and outputs. Would be great if someone out there has been able to listen to both and could give me an opinions of how they compare. Again I'm also interested in other sub $2,000 units. Thanks 

milkdudd
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,360 posts
 

Your Onkyo is a full featured pre-amp with a phono input. The GoldNote is just a phono preamp. The Onkyo is kinda at the bottom rung for a full preamp with a phono section. Not saying it can't sound good but the next level is going to cost a bit more. I would save up until you can swing a really good pre-amp. 

ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 

Gold Note is a high end audio company, Onkyo is not. The Gold Note PH-10 is their entry for an affordable phono stage. They know how to make spectacular sounding equipment and you are going to hear that in this phono stage. It is well reviewed by professional reviewers. It is going to sound a lot better than the phono stage in your Onkyo. It might be a good first step to improve the overall sound of your system. Then perhaps what you learn upgrade your preamp… that will have a huge impact as well. 

milkdudd OP
63 posts
 

Thanks for the responses. I agree that a better preamp would be a good idea. I have been using a Violectric V281 as both headphone amp and preamp to my stereo rig. I recently purchased a Gustard A22 Dac here on Audiogon that can function as a preamp also. This is the first Dac I have used that sounds better without using the V281 as a preamp. What I would like to do is get a preamp with two balanced outputs so I can run one to my stereo amp and one to my headphone amp. Thinking maybe a pre-owned Ayre if I go SS. Maybe the Rogue RP-7 if I go tubed. If it has dual XLR outputs that is, I’d have to check. Anyone have other suggestions for a sub $5,000 used preamp? I know there are so many to choose from so all advice would be appreciated

ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 

OP, By the way I have a Violectric … I think it is a V281… I had to import it from Germany. This unit has enough current to power a set of Denton flagship headphones. I used it a few times and gave it to my partner for listening to tv at night when I am sleeping. Good high current headphone amp. But lacks musicality.

 

Ayre makes great equipment. But if you want real musicality, go tube. I recommend a used Audio Research preamp, they are a level above Rouge. And you will hear it. For headphones, I recommend Woo, you get the current and natural musical sound.

milkdudd OP
63 posts
 

Thanks for the input. If I go tubed maybe I should consider the Prima Luna preamp in addition to the AR. I think the one that has balanced connections is the Evo 400

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