Unless you find good deal on a used phono stage, $1,200 isn't going to buy you enough of an upgrade to get excited about. At retail, going from a $900 to $1200 product is usually a lateral move unless there is some system incompatibility. I'd agree with Inna, wait until you've actually purchased a new table and cartridge.
Phono amp recommendation for both mm & mc
There are several threads regarding phono amps but still could not find compatible advice.
I currently have a Thorens TD-160 with all the usual upgrade mods.....dampening, tonearm (TP-16) rewire, isolation cones, etc. I'm using a AT-150mlx cartridge with a Rogue Audio Stealth phono amp. I would like to upgrade the phono amp knowing that down the road (1-2 yrs) I will upgrade table to VPI Classic and begin running MC's. So, to my question.....I would like advice/suggestions on upgrading my phono amp to accomodate my current situation as well as accomodating my future requirements. I have always bought used on agon with satisfaction. My budget is $1200.00 range.
Any and all advice is greatly appreciated.
I currently have a Thorens TD-160 with all the usual upgrade mods.....dampening, tonearm (TP-16) rewire, isolation cones, etc. I'm using a AT-150mlx cartridge with a Rogue Audio Stealth phono amp. I would like to upgrade the phono amp knowing that down the road (1-2 yrs) I will upgrade table to VPI Classic and begin running MC's. So, to my question.....I would like advice/suggestions on upgrading my phono amp to accomodate my current situation as well as accomodating my future requirements. I have always bought used on agon with satisfaction. My budget is $1200.00 range.
Any and all advice is greatly appreciated.