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Phono Pre Advice

Hi,
I'm in the market for a new phono stage $2,500-$3,500 (or so)
VPI Classic 1, Ortofon Quintet Blue, JPS Labs cables
Current phono pre: Channel Islands PEQ-1 MKII/AC15 MKII power supply. Is is a little "lean" relatively low noise but lacking weight and dynamics

In contention are:
Modwright PH-9 + power supply
Goldnote PH10 + power supply
PS Audio Stellar Phono (when released in September) no option for external power supply
*also love the look of the Thorens tep 302! Anyone heard it?

Thank you for any and all thoughts on those listed or others not on my radar, lots of amazing experience here!!

Best,
-JP
jp-2213
wolfaudiomani
3 posts
 
You should choose Luxman tube amp, it sound sweet and thick. But it is difficult to find a really good one because it is vintage item.
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
939 posts
 
Both the Herron VTPH-2 and the Allnic are excellent suggestions. I have owned both and consider them neck and neck. You should be able to find an Allnic H1201 or H1202 in your price range. I have the H1202, and it's very musical. Can't go wrong either way.
sleepwalker65's avatar
sleepwalker65
832 posts
 
Okay, so are you looking for advice or offering it????
jp-2213 OP
43 posts
 
@sleepwalker65 If the above is directed at my post, I'm not sure how you mean?

I simply was soliciting feedback on my short list and thoughts on phono stages I may not have yet considered. I did receive some good feedback and am pleased with the results

Happy listening...
-JP
hifiman5's avatar
hifiman5
1,823 posts
 
@jp-2213     You are in a great place with your budget to consider many fine phono amps!  One other fine benefit of going from a sub $1000 unit to the Luxman E-250 is the vast reduction in the reproduction of pops and clicks as that unit has a much more advanced power supply which can better manage those amusical surface transients.
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