Project Tube Box DS2 vs. Hagerman Audio Trumpet MC


I am currently using a Project Tube Box DS2 phono preamp. If you see my system, I love the tube sound and prefer over hyper detail and neutrality. However, I am not talking about extreme euphonics, loose bass and no sparkle at all. Modern tube sound is not like that. The vinyl setup is pretty decent, but recently I contacted Hagerman Audio Labs and Jim told me that the Trumpet MC is all tube amplification where the Project is tube buffer and the difference should be night and day. The Trumpet MC should blow the Project out of the water.

Given that the price difference is only $200 more for the Trumpet MC and Project is well made and is infinitely adjustable, do you agree with his assessment? Does anyone have experience with the Hagerman products or this phono in particular? He indicated his 30 day return policy is no strings attached, just pay return shipping which is no big deal as this weighs 3 lbs. However, I want to see if anyone has had the experience dealing with this company before.

Thanks in advance!
128x128dandaroy

Showing 1 response by solypsa

Hagerman has been killing it with his phono preamps for many years now. I haven't heard this newest version with the 'reduced' PS but I have heard the prior Trumpet sound awesome with a very good front end. ( Ortofon A90 with Durand tonearm etc. )

As to if it will make a night and day difference depends a bit on how far you take the technics/Hana setup fine tuning imho...