Phono Preamp Suggestions?


I have a Sota Star table, with SME IV-VI arm, and a Shelter 90X cartridge. I would like to upgrade my current phono preamp (Music Fidelity X-LPSv3).

I am using the Denon Prepro as my Preamp, Classe CA-M400 amps, and B&W 802D speakers.

I would like to get something nice that is a good match for the rest of my system, for $1000-$1800. Used or new is fine. Do you have some suggestions?

Additional Info:
- The Shelter cartridge has an output of .65mv
- I am open to SS or Tubes.
- Currently, I think my system is pretty neutral. I would prefer a neutral phono preamp, or maybe something with just a very slight hint of warmth.

Darrell



dmccombs
Art Audio Vinyl 1. Best value. However you will want to upgrade your speakers after that.
Just want to share my late experience.

I quite agreed with Sonofjim.

Moreover, you can connect the GCPH directly to your Classe Power amp. No need to connect the phono to your curren Pre amp. Just switch the RCAs between the Pre amp and the phono. I prefer my GCPH connecting to my Power amps, ASL hurricane, to connecting it to my Preamp Hovland HP100.

Although GCPH gives me a lot of flexibilities (I have got the latest one that came with a remote control), I found it sounds a bit coarse, thin, and flat sometimes. I recently plugged in the K&K SUT between my TT and GCPH, and it changes the sonic dramatically. The female vocals (Carol Kidd, Jacintha, Susan Wong and etc) are so sweet,lively amd focus. Instruments are also very musical when play Jazz LP.

I am planning to explore my GCPH more with more expensive SUT like Bent or EAR MC-3, etc....

Good luck.

Vichai

PS. I am using Benz Wood L2, and Zu 103DL, on Nottingham 294.
I would recommend the Allnic H-1200. Great sounding piece. 2 mini tubes /ch for MM and uses apair of SUT's for MC. Unit is very quiet and the sound easilly rivals many $2000-4000 pieces I have used.
Vleena2,
Glad to see someone else appreciates what the GCPH can do. I never noticed a lean sound with mine before but certainly not since the Cullen circuits mod. It's not real cheap but I think the mod makes it hard to rationalize spending thousands on a "better" phono stage. It does everything it should and nothing it shouldn't.