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Phono preamp: Sutherland 20/20 or Manley Chinook?

Hi guys -

I'm looking to upgrade my Lehmann Black Cube twin phono preamp to either of the above (also open to other suggestions).

System is Michell Gyro/SME 309/Benz Micro Glider SL (low output MC); EAD Pre/Pro; Bryston 9BST power amp and Dali Euphonia MS-4.

I want a warm sound and very musical presentation that pulls you in and doesn't fatigue - hence these two on the shortlist. I am not after the nth degree of detail or insight but would like kindness and tolerance of surface noise for some of my less than perfect recordings.

Max budget is $2500; used is ok too provided I could find a 240v version of the Chinook.

Has anyone compared these two phono preamps? What did you go with?

All suggestions gratefully recieved!
wadiman
bpoletti
1,530 posts
 
Forgot to mention that Keigh Herron will make sure the phono stage is set for the correct voltage.
pbnaudio's avatar
pbnaudio
1,610 posts
 
Liberty B2B-1

Are you familiar with the above phono preamp ?

Good Listening, From its maker

Peter
wadiman OP
2 posts
 
Thanks Mechans - I can get the Chinook in 240v - I'm not sure however of how it compares to the 20/20.

Bpoletti - The Herron seems like it might not be quite warm enough in my system but appreciate the suggestion

Pbnaudio - The liberty looks good but am unsure about its Class A operation and heat generation - I am already challenged with heat dissipation in the current set-up. I am installing fans to alleviate this but want to avoid a lot more heat. Having said that - that is one disadvantage (I would have thought) of the Manley vs the 20/20 - i reckon the latter would run a fair bit cooler?
pbnaudio's avatar
pbnaudio
1,610 posts
 
Wadiman

The little Liberty only dissipates a mere 25 watts so heat is a non issue. You could take one for a spin in your system as we have a 2 week trail period, I'm pretty sure you will be quite pleased with the results :-)

Good Listening

Peter
kgturner's avatar
kgturner
663 posts
 
Ha! Ask for a recommendation on two products, get recommendations for two different ones. Never heard the Sutherland. I own the Chinook, but wouldn't classify it as warm. I do find it musical and non-fatiguing though. Good luck.
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