That's a pretty nice setup you have all the way around. A different/better preamp might yield you bigger improvement overall than just your phono. At least, it might do a better job of revealing improvements in phono and/or cartridge in the future.
Phono Preamp Suggestions?
I have a Sota Star table, with SME IV-VI arm, and a Shelter 90X cartridge. I would like to upgrade my current phono preamp (Music Fidelity X-LPSv3).
I am using the Denon Prepro as my Preamp, Classe CA-M400 amps, and B&W 802D speakers.
I would like to get something nice that is a good match for the rest of my system, for $1000-$1800. Used or new is fine. Do you have some suggestions?
Additional Info:
- The Shelter cartridge has an output of .65mv
- I am open to SS or Tubes.
- Currently, I think my system is pretty neutral. I would prefer a neutral phono preamp, or maybe something with just a very slight hint of warmth.
Darrell
I am using the Denon Prepro as my Preamp, Classe CA-M400 amps, and B&W 802D speakers.
I would like to get something nice that is a good match for the rest of my system, for $1000-$1800. Used or new is fine. Do you have some suggestions?
Additional Info:
- The Shelter cartridge has an output of .65mv
- I am open to SS or Tubes.
- Currently, I think my system is pretty neutral. I would prefer a neutral phono preamp, or maybe something with just a very slight hint of warmth.
Darrell
Showing 2 responses by darkmoebius
Hi Dmccombs, While your Denon HT preamp may be pretty good, it is most likely the weakest link in your system. It was designed with home theater and convenience in mind, first, and 2-channel audio as a secondary priority. Whereas, the rest of your system was specifically designed for 2-channel reproduction. You have really great components, just that the Denon is not in their league. You can find yourself a much better used preamp for ~$1.3k range and still have money left over for a better phono pre, if necessary. There's a VTL 2.5 line stage with MM/MC phono stage($1.2K) made in 2002. It is the current version of the preamp. - 6 line inputs, 2 pairs of outputs, 1 record out, 1 tape loop, 1 external processor loop, currently set to MM Supposedly, this later version of VTL 2.5 can be switched to MC cartridge loading(and gain) by simply switching an internal jumper. Some other good used choices (and keep your phono), would be: Balanced Audio (BAT) Audio Research Bel Canto EAR linestage Anyway, try a nice tube preamp and see what it does for your system, overall. Might be just what you are looking for, and more. |