Manley Chinook SE MK2


What phono preamp and how much would it take to better the Manley? I ask mainly because I have one and considering upgrading. I know it's been stated that it takes $5k upwards to better it but curious of some real world experiences.  

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Whart thank you for the detailed response.  A fellow audiophile had a Steelhead and didn't care for it whatsoever.  He ended up with a BAT but not sure of the model. He also had Audiopax and Duo's. His system sounds phenomenal.  His room is treated professionally which I'm sure helps greatly plus his analog system is 1st rate. 

I purchased the Modwright from TMR so I'll have a return policy if not satisfied but my gut tells me it will be a notch or two above the Chinook.  

@theflattire good to know thanks. TMR didn't have the T model in stock but once the PH9.0 is broken in,  more than likely I'll send it in for the T upgrade.  

@samzx12 

Check out the Modwright PH9.0 tube rolling thread too.

Good advice and reviews there.  I don't run the stock Sovteks.

I did both upgrades at the same time so I cannot really attest to how much the tube rectifier did to the sound.  Maybe ask around for someone who did the upgrades one at a time.

theflattire, I am curious to know where you got the information that most audiophiles prefer the Modwright to the "Manley" (by which term I assume you refer to the Chinook)?  Both units seem well thought of by most who offer opinions, but I have never read of a credible direct comparison between the two.