2. amps-preamps
  3. 1155070401

ARC PH5 or K&K Audio Phono Stage

I am new to the world of vinyl. Only recently, I upgraded my entry point VPI Scout TT to a SuperScoutmaster Signature TT. Cartridge saw a change as well - Benz Glider 2M to a Benz Ruby 3H. Now, I am looking to "update" my phono stage. Currently, I am using an EAR 834P Deluxe which is nice. However, I have had the opportunity to audition two other other phono preamps - namely a Sutherland PhD and an ARC PH5. The Sutherland was not my cup of tea. In my setup it sounded very fatiguing and relatively conjested (I realize it is a top-flight unit, thus the in-home trial). I then had the opportunity to audition an ARC PH5. Now we're talking. This thing is so musical with absolutely no fatigue factor and resolves information beautifully in comparison to the "other" unit. Again, this is in my setup which, by the way, consists of a CJ Premier 16LS line stage, CJ Premier 12 monos and ML Prodigy speakers.

Bottom line is I liked the ARC PH5 a lot. My only concern is this - there are so many good phono stages out there but I do not have the opportunity to audition them because of the market I reside in. So, I have to rely on you experts out there to help before I plunk down the $$s. To make matters simple, I have narrowed my quest down to the ARC PH5 and K&K phono stage (Art Audio Vinyl Reference equivalent). Obviously, I do not have the means to listen to the latter and therefore need some input. I am simply looking for any information regarding a direct comparison of these two units (without bashing either), simply highlighting some of their sonic features, merits, demerits, etc. They both fall within my budget of $2K.

Thanks all.
mumbai

Showing 1 response by david12

david12
1,454 posts
 
Never heard the ARC, but another strong vote for the K&K. I too have used a number of units:
Trichord Dino
Tom Evans Microgroove
Audio Synthesis Passion
Clearaudio Reference
I have heard numerous others, the Whest, Tom Evans Groove, Bel Canto, Chord Reference and none came close to the K&K. Its detailed but fatigue free, a rich sound excellent soundstage, but above all QUIET, I never really realised how important this was till hearing this stage. A final plus, it is the only stage I have ever used that does'nt pick up stray radio stations.
Are there better stages out there? I am sure there are and you will hear many people berate transformer as against active MC gain, but the Lundahl transformers in the K&K seem fine to me. I see no prospect of changing my unit and I can't say that about many other components.
One thought, go on the Audioasylum special K&K site and see if there is a user of the unit near to you who might audition it. I am in the UK, not very practical.
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