Upgrading to an external Phonostages for my system


Here is my system...

Harman Karman HK990
VPI Scout turntable with a JMW-9 memorial arm and an Ortofon 2m bronze cartridge (mm)
Revels F52’s
SVS PB-NSD subwoofer.

Not schooled on these components at all but I’m in the process of researching them. I know it’s important to match the tone arm, and cart to it. What about the connects?

Someone has suggested a used JD9mk11, another suggested a used Ear834P.

Any suggestions?

Thank you for your input.

meambler

Showing 2 responses by jmcgrogan2

If you are still planning to use the Harman Karman HK990, I wouldn't bother to go with a separate phono stage. Your 990 has a built in phono stage, correct? Just enjoy it until you are ready for a full electronics upgrade.

If you desire an upgrade, I would look for another integrated amp with built in phono stage and upgrade that way. Maybe an integrated amp from Ayre, Plinius, Belles, Krell, or BAT would probably be a significant upgrade over the HK. YMMV.
No doubt there are better phono stages than the one in your 990, but I don't know how much more you would get out of it by running a better phono stage through your 990 amp.
It would be sort of like putting a $5000 cartridge on your Scout turntable. A chain is only as strong as it's weakest link.

Don't under-estimate integrated amps either. I have been on both sides, and for me, there are some mighty fine integrated amps out there these days. I've owned monoblock amps, 2 chassis preamps, 2 chassis phono stages. Believe me, you can get as many boxes as you want.

I'd have to go to at least $30K in separates to beat my VAC integrated amp. I know, I've been there.  Then you have to throw more money in for the extra interconnects and power cords. I'll take a great integrated amp over good separates any day.

If you are stuck on a separate phono stage, the Allnic H1201 is very nice, and I would recommend it highly. Maybe overkill right now for the rest of your system, but maybe one day you may upgrade your analog front end and electronics to be able to take full advantage of the Allnic.