Well, I had an Apt and I never found the phono section bright, but then I used a Shure VIII in those days. I think your problem may have more to do with cartridge matching - does your cartridge needs a load other than 47K? What does the manufacturer recommend? This could make a big difference. And, FWIW don't hesitate to use those tone controls on the Apt, they are well thought out and effective. They should help you cure the brightness you detect.
Taming a Bright Phono Section
I recently aquired an Apt Holman pre-amp. This pre-amp has
really stood the test of time. The phono section is very transparent
albeit a tad bright. Now I'm not using any esoteric gear, just a
Philips GA-212, another piece to stand the test of time, and an
Ortofon OM cartridge. I've had a Creek OBH-8SE phono pre-amp
used with the same above and it was by no means bright. So it is
the phono section. Any suggestions on how I might be able to tame this brightness.
really stood the test of time. The phono section is very transparent
albeit a tad bright. Now I'm not using any esoteric gear, just a
Philips GA-212, another piece to stand the test of time, and an
Ortofon OM cartridge. I've had a Creek OBH-8SE phono pre-amp
used with the same above and it was by no means bright. So it is
the phono section. Any suggestions on how I might be able to tame this brightness.