List of top phono preamps best


I know I have pounded away at this topic but i'm on a mission. I am looking for a phono preamp preferably with balanced circuit and output and want something that approaches the best. I am very fond of the sound of the ear834p which is in my system now, maybe this can offer an idea of what kind of sound I appreciate. The list I have compiled is: BOULDER (out of reach), AESTHETIX IO SIG.. (too many tubes and runs too hot), MANLEY STEELHEAD (a serious contender), LAMM LP2(another contender), PASS XONO (in the ball park), EAR 324 (another serious choice), BAT VK P10(also excellent), CONRAD JOHNSON PREMIER15, ZYX ARTISAN, AUDIO RESEARCH REF or ph?, AESTHETIX RHEA(was considering), ASR BASIS EXCLUSIVE, CARY PH301 or 302, LINN LINTO, HERRON VTPH-1, TOM EVANS THE GROOVE, ART AUDIO, WHEST PS.20. And there are more. What would be your top picks under $3000. used, preferably with balanced?
pedrillo

Showing 1 response by agaffer

If having balanced circuitry is really important to you then you can scratch most of the ones you listed off your list. I owned the Groove, for a year, I demoed the Rhea for 2 weeks, I owned the ARC PH-5 for about 6 months, I demoed the ARC PH-7 for one week, the Steelhead for 2 weeks.
I liked the PH-5 the best but, that's just me. And you can get it new for way under what you are willing to spend. It is better sounding than their preveious Ref (which sold for what? $10,000?) and I think it is as good as the new PH-7 which is their new Ref.