I can highly recommend the Aqvox 2CI MKII phonostage.Have heard it with the Allaetrs,Benz and Koetsu.Each had its' own signature.Adjustable gain on front panel allows for fine-tuning:very helpful.Thinking of pairing mine with a Dyna XX-2 for my next go-round.
Vinyl Front End Upgrade
I've been sitting on the sidelines without vinyl playback for far too long and am looking to get back in the game. I've got a VPI Scout/JMW 9/Dynavector 20XM (1mv version). I've got no phonostage since I sold my ARC SP16 and bought an LS26. The rest of the system is an ARC SD135 driving Daedalus Audio DA-1.1's through Empirical Design cables. I've spent the last few months listening to digital source material through my Esoteric X-03SE, saving my pennies toward a vinyl upgrade. My plan is to keep the Scout and work on a cartridge and phonostage pairing that will give me vinyl playback as good or better than what I'm getting on the digital side. I've got $3K to spend on new or used components. I'd appreciate some suggestions.