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Best Phono Stage

Hi all,

I need some advise on a really good sounding phono stage to go with MC turntable set up in the $5k or so bracket. I am completely new to vinyl and realise there a lot here in terms of arm/cart matching MC,MM and I think moving iron but if you could point me in the direction of some good sounding units I can investigate compatibility etc. I don’t own a table or cart yet. I was looking at the Zesto Audio 1.2.

My goal is a liquid engaging sound with deep tight bass and air and separation on top.

Thanks in advance.

Sean

lance23
lance23's avatar
lance23 OP
13 posts
 

Hi everyone, thanks for all your replies and contributions, looking at the the various options the Goldnote PH10 seems to be a good choice with flexibility.

Thanks 

Sean

rsf507
2,577 posts
 

Here’s the best price you may find for a new PH10 and PSU-10  

 

westcoastaudiophile
819 posts
 

Teac PE-505

cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 

I went with the Allnic H-3000.  I upgraded from the Rhea.  The Rhea is a bit noisy (tube rush) compared to the Allnic.  The Allnic is dead silent - never heard tubes be so quiet.  

4krowme's avatar
4krowme
542 posts
 

Just to update a bit. A long while back, I did build Pete Millett phono pre that is designed with an LR RIAA equalizing stage. Basically, as far as sound is concerned, I have high regards for it. There is a hum problem that I caused along the way, and troubleshooting is not fun at all. I just want to play records. FWIW, when I replaced the IC chips with upgrades, the hum increased. 

 To repeat myself, I should have laid down more serious cash in the first place rather than cause myself incredible hassle building 2 kits, and buying 2 phono pres. Lessoned learned? Nah, I will do it again in some fashion not too far from now.

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