IME, ARC PH7 has a bit lower than expected output gain for LOMC carts with 0.5-0.6mV output(5cm/sec @1kHz). However, it is still possible to use LOMCs if your pre amp can get the rest of the job done well(in other words, you may request more low noise amplification from your pre amp). Hopefully, it will not upset the existing tonal balance of your system.
For sure, it has its own sonic signature: a typical soft, tender, warm, tubey approach. It would be ideal for someone who look for more relaxed presentations, less fatigue for prolonged listening. Not for someone who look for more punch, fast solid tight bass, more body and weight, more dynamics from a phono stage.
The one I used also suffered from excessive background noise on left channel, which may be an individual incident.
In short, to choose PH7 or not very much depend on what you are looking for from a phono amp.
Good luck and VBR
Dan
For sure, it has its own sonic signature: a typical soft, tender, warm, tubey approach. It would be ideal for someone who look for more relaxed presentations, less fatigue for prolonged listening. Not for someone who look for more punch, fast solid tight bass, more body and weight, more dynamics from a phono stage.
The one I used also suffered from excessive background noise on left channel, which may be an individual incident.
In short, to choose PH7 or not very much depend on what you are looking for from a phono amp.
Good luck and VBR
Dan