Phonostage recommendations under $3K


Folks,

I am looking to step up from my current Parasound ZPhono XRM (still under 60 days audition trial). To be honest, I am quite pleased with its performance, feature set and flexibility. I mean what else you can expect from a $600 phono. While I enjoyed listening to vinyl through XRM, I feel there is room for improvement and XRM may be the weakest link in my vinyl setup. And since XRM is the only phono I’ve experienced in my setup, I don’t have quite have a reference point. So what else should I be considering under $3K?

I prefer a relaxed and slightly warm sound since I mostly listen to jazz genre.

I started to put together a list list based on sound quality and flexibility with gain and impedance settings.

Parasound JC 3+ Phono Pre
Allnic H-1202
Leben RS30 EQ (requires a SUT for MC Cart)

I hear high praises on Herron VTPH-2A but it’s bit more than I would like to spend at this time.

My current vinyl setup, Thorens TD1601, ZPhono XRM, Hana ML (low output - 0.4mv), Accuphase E-650 and Tannoy Canterbury’s.

I would really appreciate some recommendations based on your personal experiences. Thank you!
128x128lalitk

Showing 5 responses by grk

Check out the Tavish Design Adagio and you can roll tubes to get the degree of warmth you want. The only downside is that there is a 5-6 week wait for them, but occasionally, a used one will pop up for sale. : )
I owned a Herron VTPH A for a bit. And while I thought it was great for classical and jazz, I felt that it lacked "pop" or sufficient transient response for rock. (Perhaps Keith Heron's training in classical music made for that difference?) I ended up selling it and the new owner was very happy. The Tavish Adagio plays all genres quite well.