I really like my Pro-ject phono tube box II and you could go the SE route if you needed the extra settings. I've put it against the Vincent Pho-8 and the Pro-ject was much more musical with a wide and deep sound stage. Sounds like people like the Jolida tube phono preamp for similar reasons and you can tube roll either. I have never had any phono / ground loop hum with the Pro-ject phono and is very quiet except for some tube rush at an extremely volume knob setting that I would never actually listen to music at. My analog dealer really likes the Benz (Ace) / Pro-ject combination on Xpression III tables with the phono tube box II.
Used/New Phono Preamp for Linn LP12 and Benz Micro
I am piecing back a system after a divorce years ago and just started buying up used gear. I have a McCormack Line Drive that I am re-wiring and likely replacing the pot with a stepped attenuator. I purchased a pair of Totem Hawk speakers and have not settled on an amplifier but am leaning towards a Threshold or BAT VK-60. I am looking for a nice, but reasonably priced phono preamp in the $500 range, used or new. The deck is an early 80's Linn Sondek LP12 with Ittok LVII Mk. I with Benz Micro Glider SL .4mV low-output. I am not sure what the get, no real thoughts, tube or SS would be fine, battery powered, even better. Also - anyone have thoughts on a batter powered amplifier? My power in my condo is poor at best and I would rather invest in a batter (or series of batteries) to power an amplifier, even Class-D, kit or Chinese of the quality and sound if well above average and the price is under $1k.
Thank you in advance - D
Thank you in advance - D