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Phono preamp with best mid bass

Let me explain my ideal sound and see if you guys have any suggestions. I realize speakers and and every other things contributes but looking for a phono that leans naturally toward the sound I’m looking for. 
 

I like a strong mid/upper bass that is highly articulated. Highs that are not overdone and natural. Sub bass is not as important for the music I listen to but what’s down there I prefer punchy rather than big. Natural mids that are well defined. Detailed but not to an extent that compromises robustness or gets too analytical. 
 

Been looking at the tube models. Rogue Ares looks intriguing as they mention some of the traits I am looking for in the reviews I’ve read. 
 

thanks

mofojo
lewm
12,543 posts
 

I’m with tooblue on this question. Tonal balance will be interdependent with tonearm, wires, cartridge, alignment, all upstream, and on amplifier, speakers, and room downstream.

wrm57
983 posts
 

You might also want to play around with speaker positioning, including toe-in, before you jump into a new phono stage. Mid-bass can be dramatically affected by surprisingly small changes therein.

hoytis
86 posts
 

I've been loving the Softone Model4. Tube stage but still very articulate with beauty mid/highs. I also have the Vincent PHO-701. Keep in mind that's a tube buffer on the output, not true tube stage. I still really enjoy that as well, especially the load options. It's an excellent option, but there's something about the Softone that suits my system...and my ears.

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,344 posts
 

Moving speakers closer together will usually add a bit more presence in mid/upper bass. Slight adjustments 1/2” to 1” per side at a time.  

mofojo OP
2,177 posts
 

Totally agree with all the tips. I have a good lead on a Rogue Ares 2 for a pretty good deal I may jump on. We shall see may pick it up tomorrow after thinking on it for the night. The MM phono input on my MF A1008 does not have much gain. I would rather play through my tube integrated but I’m using the phono out of the MF and I can’t get the volume I need. I’ll update if I buy the Rogue after a few days. Demo model so prob has some hours on it. 

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