What Rotel front end do you have? I was running a Grado Red cartridge / DIY op-amp (OPA2124) based phono stage / Rotel RA972 integrated and recently changed out preamps for a Rotel RC995 pre with built in phono stage. The latter sounds much much much better and more than half the differenece comes from the higher quality line stage. Something to keep in mind.
Which phono stage & cartridge combo?
Help me decide please. I'm down to two choices. Grado Reference/Statement Platinum (Hi or low output?) and Grado PH-1 pre or Sumiko BPS EvoIII and Tube box. I have considered using the Grado cartridge with the Tube Box as well. I believe the gain will match with the low output Grado cartridge (.5mv into a 60db gain stage) but the 5mv version of the Platinum may be too hot for the 40 db gain of the Tube box?
The cartridge and phono stage will eventually be used with a VPI Scout. My current system is Rotel front end with Kef Reference Model 2's. I will be changing speakers out to Vienna Acoustics Mozart or Beethovens shortly.
I prefer a smooth sounding musical setup that images well with a big soundstage. I guess you could say I prefer a laid back non fatiguing sound to analytical precision. That is one of the reasons I am going to give vinyl a good try. Thanks for the input!
The cartridge and phono stage will eventually be used with a VPI Scout. My current system is Rotel front end with Kef Reference Model 2's. I will be changing speakers out to Vienna Acoustics Mozart or Beethovens shortly.
I prefer a smooth sounding musical setup that images well with a big soundstage. I guess you could say I prefer a laid back non fatiguing sound to analytical precision. That is one of the reasons I am going to give vinyl a good try. Thanks for the input!