How Do I Choose A Phono Preamp

Hi

I can say that VTL makes fantastic products. My amp is amazing the s-400 2 and so i got the VTL 2.5i which is fairly new. It has an msrp of 5k so not cheap but not to expensive. I am blown away by it. So dynamic and natural I really love it. One small tube. I waited 4 months but it was worth it. Bea Lamm the ears behind VTL is an exclusive vinyl listener and it really does great with orchestral music and  jazz and everything i have listened to. A real winner. It was recommended by an audio beat writer and my set up guy. It does not disappoint. They recommended it as it hits way above it’s price point. I had a luxman 590 mark ii with the integrated phono stage before and this is a whole different universe. Just my experience 

The Lejonklou might suit you. Got a very positive review in Stereophile.

@vonhelmholtz +1 for the Goldnote PS-10. I also have the PSU-10. $3K I think.

I'm running the Hana ML at the lowest gain setting which is 62dB and it sounds great, dead quiet. On the fly loading and gain controls for almost any MC or MM cart.

Caveat: The only other PS I have experience with is a long-gone cheap Pro-Ject.

@headphonedreams have a business acquaintance that had one and it only lasted about 1.5 years. The plastic internals became brittle, cracked and connections fell out of the back plate. I know crazy Swedes usually build good stuff. 

The Lejonklou might suit you. Got a very positive review in Stereophile.

I have an Ayre P-5xe which is very clear, clean, transparent and silent it would be worth checking out.