Audio Note Soro from 97, still current?

Phil,

I like the Soro SE Phono much better than the Oto. I use Tungsol 5881 (4), Ken Rad VT229 (2), Tesla ECC803 gold pins (4), Bugle Boy 6dj8 (1), And 2 12au7's, but I can't remember what I have in it now.

The phono stage is excellent for MM cartridges. Before I got my Supratek Syrah, I used both a K&K stepup, and a Tom Evans Microgroove to match it to my Denon 103r. The Tesla's really made a difference in the phono stage. For the money, I think it is the best integrated with phono out there.

I paid a grand for a later one owner unit. I considered it a steal, but they seem to be going for about $1200, or a little less. I do feel it is worth the 4k new price tag!

The only way mine will go is if a higher level AN product replaces it. Now that I have the Syrah, I want to go AN monos one day. I should have bought Carl's Conquest when he had it for sale.

If you want to greatly improve the Soro's sound, get some AN speakers and cables. I have the AZ3's, and they sound much better with the Soro than a 4k pair I also have. Could be one of the best $1500 speakers out there. Also, the AN Lexus speaker cables give quite a bang for the buck.

Joe

Phil,

I have mine on Audiopoints. I actually have them under everything, including the battery power supply for the Teres! I also use Stardamp to control cover resonance. The cover is kinda flimsy, probably my only gripe about the Soro.

I've never heard the JMR's, so I can't compare them. But I have heard good things about them.

BTW, if you don't have the manual, email Peter Q and he'll drop one in the mail for you. Great guys, and he actualy answers all of my stupid emails!

As far as tubes go, be careful where you buy. Some places are EXTREMELY expensive. Deals happen on ebay, but here on the 'gon is probably the best place. At least you have a better chance of getting quality tubes from an audiophile.

Feel free to email anytime.

Joe

Congrats Phil! Now, all you need to do is find a quad of Tele 5881's. If you think it sounds great now, wait till you change tubes.