2. amps-preamps
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Suggest upgrade from c2300 phono stage

I am currently using a McIntosh c2300 with phono stage. I am using a VPI Aries 3 with flywheel motor/ring clamp/center weight and 10.5i arm. The current cart is a Lyra Argo i.
I am in the process of choosing among 3 new cart upgrades...Lyra Titan, Dynavector XV-1s, and ortofon A90.
I am looking for a tubed phono stage to mate with one of the above 3 carts. I want a crazy low noise floor and a tighter lower end and not a "fat tube" sound.
Where do I go from the Mac? I will do +/- $12k on phono stage.
Any suggestions on above carts and mating pre amps are welcomed.
Will use c2300 as pre with mc501s running JM Lab Alto Utopias.

Pepe

New Orleans...proud to call it home
cajunpepe

Showing 2 responses by cajunpepe

cajunpepe OP
255 posts
 
Bob,
I was under the impression that the MC phono stages were the same in the c2300, c500, and c1000. Are they not? What are the differences?

Pepe
cajunpepe OP
255 posts
 
Bob & Macdadtexas,

What cartridges are you using? I currently really like my Lyra, but I want to take it up a notch. I would not be surprised to see the Titan get a facelift like the lower end carts recently got with the new cantilever design. I am seeing great threads on the new Ortofon A-90 and am intrigued by it--so it is on the short list. Do either of you have experience with these?
I will read up on the Mac c500 phono stage as well. How does it stack up with the ARC Ref 2 phono? Or the new Boulder 1008?

Pepe
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