External phono stage for Luxman 509x


I have a Luxman 509x on the way. I’ve heard it has a good mm/mc phono stage built in. What would it take in an external phono stage to beat it? Would something like a Parasound Jc3+ be better and why? 

btrail

I heard the Luxman for a number of hours and it was very good. I’d have to add a $2k+ tube phono stage with NOS Telefunkens to beat it. It’s very detailed and nuanced if only a tiny bit dry and less dimensional than glass amps. Enjoy it.

wait until you hear it.

my Luxman SQ-N150 in my office, built-in phono sounds great, I never think of something else.

ANY phono, get return option, it’s always a mystery.

I have the L-509x and have run a Hana SH (HOMC) thru the MM input and now run an Audio Technica AT33SA (LOMC) thru the MC input.

Both sound fantastic!  John Atkinson's measurements in the Stereophile review of the L-509x get good marks.

The only reason I'd consider an external phono would be for flexibility in loading options.  But, pick the right cartridge and just spin the LPs and enjoy the music!