If you want a tube preamp with a phono stage the best bang-for-the-buck is an ARC SP6! I have one - paid less than $1K for it! Add a good SUT like a Bellari ($350 - I have one) and you'll have LP playback competitive with upper four-figure gear!
Phono amplification bang for the buck
I tried asking a similar question over in amps/preamps but I didn’t get anything useful over there. I’m hoping I can here.
I have a Michel Gyrodec II with SME 309 arm, and several different low output MC cartridges(.2-.4 mv output).
My budget is around $4000 give or take. I need mc/mm phono amplification and line level preamplification. I am looking at new or demo. I would consider used only if it has a significant transferable manufacturer’s warranty.
My question is, given my needs, would I get better bang for the buck at this price level by getting a preamp with an integrated phono stage, or going with a line level preamp and a separate phono stage?
Thanks.
I have a Michel Gyrodec II with SME 309 arm, and several different low output MC cartridges(.2-.4 mv output).
My budget is around $4000 give or take. I need mc/mm phono amplification and line level preamplification. I am looking at new or demo. I would consider used only if it has a significant transferable manufacturer’s warranty.
My question is, given my needs, would I get better bang for the buck at this price level by getting a preamp with an integrated phono stage, or going with a line level preamp and a separate phono stage?
Thanks.