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Technics 1200G phono recommendations

I plan to purchase a Technics 1200G turntable. Need recommendations for a phono stage. Budget under under 3k, used ok. I do not want to exceed the quality of the turntable, if that makes sense. Would also appreciate recommendations on Ortofon cartridge to match the level of TT. 
Will pair it with Mastersound 845 tube amp and Diapason adamantes III speakers. 

How much difference  does a tube phono make? Is it safe to assume that SS phono will be just as good as tube phono? I'd like to have a totally analog system, including a tube phono, but not sure how much SS phono will take away from analog sound. 
ei001h
oranfoster's avatar
oranfoster
135 posts
 
And I'd agree with @waltersalas , I have a Luxman EQ-500 and it's a breathtaking piece of kit. Extremely versatile, quiet, and it just exudes quality in all respects. Mine is paired with an Ortofon Cadenza Black. I don't know why one of the posters above says to avoid Ortofon. I couldn't ask for a better combo.
andysf's avatar
andysf
269 posts
 
I also have a Technics 1200G.  My first choice would be a Luxman EQ 500.  I think this would be compatible with the vast majority of cartridges available these days.  Expensive though!  Herron gets a lot of positive comments here, as well.
oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948
510 posts
 
I’ve used a Parasound JC3jr, Herron, and PS Audio Stellar in that order with my 1200G, with an Ortofon Quintet Black cartridge. 
The Herron sounded best, with the PS Audio an almost dead heat second. I kept the PS Audio pre because I have their BHK preamp, DSD DAC, and BHK250 amp. I’m quite happy with it. 
ihcho's avatar
ihcho
612 posts
 
Allnic H1202. It has both MM and MC.
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
I have no idea why people mention turntable type or brand when they are talking about phono stage?

What’s the reason for that?

Your phono stage connected to phono cable and this cable connected to the cartridge pins.

What is matter:
CARTRIDGE type, cartridge output, cartridge impedance.

For MM cartridge: phono cable capacitance is important too.

But turbtable is irrelevant for the phono stage!

People, wake up !?
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