Phono Stage for passive preamp control


Considering transformer-based passive preamplification. Can anyone suggest a quality tube phono stage with sufficient gain for lower input MC pickups in such a configuration ($2K new or used range)? Don't need volume control on the phono stage, but could go with one that wil bypass the volume control. Am I restricted to a SS phono stage in order to have sufficient gain WITHOUT a step-up device?
4yanx

Showing 1 response by rello

The gain issue is really important when using a passive preamp even with SS units. I would pick a unit that is adjustable in case you need to dial it in.

I have a Naim hicap/stageline that I love but really did not work well when I had my Rogue Tempest (great integrated but had passive line stage). Luckily Naim was able to adjust that gain slightly to make a big difference but I had to have them do it. Of course in this situation Naim presumed you are using an active line stage.