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phono pre amp giant killer?

I'm in the market for a used phono pre amp. I'm considering the pro-ject tube box II and the clear audio nano (because of some positive reviews and the fact that I use a Clear audio Vertuoso Wood Cartridge). My question is how much do you need to spend on a used phono pre amp in order to get to the level of truly top flight performance? My budget was going to be 350 but that may change with this thread.

thanks
andy
andyth

Showing 2 responses by paulfolbrecht

paulfolbrecht
603 posts
 
The biggest giant-killer of a phono pre I'm familiar with is the EE MiniMax.

One good hit to the side of the head with the MiniMax took Lars down (for good) - Lars was easily 6' 6" and 300 lb. (It was self-defense.) It's those step-up trannies.

Seriously, my #1 recommendation, if you can solder, would be the Bottlehead Seduction. Despite what others will say, this unit, with the C45 upgrade, does compete with units far, far above its price range.

The Graham Slee is also really superb. As is the Black Cube - I think the Cube may even have more saturated tonal colors.

And the MM honestly is great but certainly above your price range used.
paulfolbrecht
603 posts
 
I've never had or heard a Cornet. I've owned the MM but long before the Seduction. I'd say quality is quite close to par between the two. MM uses 12AX7s which tend to have a bit more tone than the 6922 family, which some prefer as 'faster'. The MM has step-ups which is a big boon if you're going LOMC but a waste if you're not.

Both units are dead silent, extended, with correct tone & timbre. It would take a side-by-side to say more.

And, yes, people do all kinds of creative things with Bottlehead chassis; the sky's the limit.
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