2. analog
  3. 1164229102

Need an Entry Level Phono Preamp

Well, it's been 22 years and I'd like to go back and spin some vinyl. I'm considering a Cambridge 640P and a Rega Fono for a Shure V-15 VMR on either an old Dual CS5000 or Thorens TD160. I was ready to buy the Bellari but the 60Hz hum problem I heard about here on A'gon scared me away. I just want to listen to my old records, not troubleshoot ground loops. Also considered tubes from an AES PH-1 and the new Pro-Ject Tube Box II. OK, let's through in the Jolida JD-9A for kicks. That's a price range from $169 to about $550 which is fine. Line Pre is a Bryston BP-25.

I welcome your comments and recommendations. Oh, I listen primarily to classical music. Someone has to keep it alive!

Thanks!
av2k

Showing 4 responses by av2k

av2k OP
17 posts
 
Thanks so much for the feedback! Before I make a move I'll check to see what Bryston has in the way of a phono board.
av2k OP
17 posts
 
I don't believe Bryston has a phono board for the BP25. I checked their website and couldn't find anything.

At the moment, I have my Shure V-15 VMR installed in my old Thorens TD-165. The question is to try tubes or go SS in a phono stage. Does anyone know how quiet the Jolida is compared to the AES (Cary)?
av2k OP
17 posts
 
I heard back from Bryston about a phono stage for the BP25. They do the mod at the factory for $600 plus shipping costs. That seems fair but I just had my BP25 serviced and tested in July. It's perfect. I'd rather not part with it at this point. So I'm back to an outboard phono stage.

But I did some homework and I find that I need 47 kOhms impedance input with a 100pF capacitive load for my Shure V-15 VMR. Gain should be at least 39dB. So now it comes down to the sound.

The new Pro-ject Tube Box MKII looks interesting with two 12AX7A output tubes. Gain stage is probably op amps. On the cheap, the Parasound zPhono meets the requirement. Class C rated and all that. Rega Fono MM and the Cambridge 640P are options too.

Let's see....what else is out there? Do any of the above stand out as a decent phono stage for an old Thorens table with the Shure cartridge. I also have a high output MC Adcom Cross Coil hiding somewhere too.

Or, I save a little more and go for the Dynavector?
av2k OP
17 posts
 
Thought I'd try the Bellari after all. I haven't listened to tubes since my old LEAK preamp/amp. Gain is only 30dB but this should be OK for a 3.6 mV output Shure V15 VMR.

With only 250 LPs I'm not sure if I'll need to go upscale from here, unless I get addicted to vinyl! This may be just the beginning.

Thanks for all the help!

Cheers.
More to discover