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What is a good turntable preamp under $500?

I am dipping my toes in analog and want to upgrade my turntable preamp for a second system. I currently have a cheap Cambridge Audio preamp that I think cost just over $100. I am using a Pioneer Elite receiver. At the time I just wanted to see if I could get my old Gerrard turntable up and running. Sound is pretty mediocre. Would I notice much difference if I went up to to something $300-$500. I have a high end digital system in my main rig. I don’t need to go to that level but would like to improve it some. Any you would recommend?

128x128bwguy
tunehead's avatar
tunehead
151 posts
 

Yes, upgrade TT first. Then get a equally expensive phono preamp (or an newer integrated amp with phono stage). Throwing $500 at just a new phono preamp probably will keep you wondering/expecting more.

Original OP question: get a used "ifi phono2". I have one and love it, very configurable for different cartridges.

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,366 posts
 

What model is the TT?

 

DeKay

bwguy's avatar
bwguy OP
216 posts
 

ah so sorry…..It is a Yamaha PF 20.  I don’t know why I thought it was a Gerrard.  I did have a Gerrard at one point in my life.

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,869 posts
 

Go Rega, any model.   Just read the reviews. 

bwguy's avatar
bwguy OP
216 posts
 

What do you think of their intro model, the Planar 1and  the Planar 1 plus, which has. Built in preamp?

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