Recommendations for MM Phono ~ Tube or Solid State

Update: I haven’t found Leben or Accuphase on used market yet but I did find a hidden gem straight from Japan. After spending a week, I am in complete ‘awe’ with this amazing phono that is allowing me to appreciate and enjoy my record collection at another level.

With permalloy core wound transformer on board for Low and High MC and MM cartridges, Softone Model 4 proving its existence to be a worthy stablemate for my Etsuro Bordeaux (0.25mV). And a pair of 12AX7 aboard gives me plenty of drive to tube roll in very near future.

Anyone looking for a tube phono under $1K should check out this phono. It’s a screaming bargain!

http://softone.a.la9.jp/english/Model4/m4-1.htm

12AX7s provide plenty of gain but actually not much "drive". Drive is a term associated usually with current output, and the 12AX7 is puny in that department. In any case, gain is what you need and what you get with a 12AX7. Just as well you did not find a Leben; nice as the Leben may sound, it does not have enough gain even for a low-ish output MM or typical "high output" MI (which usually makes about half the output V of a typical MM). It’s fine for a cartridge with at least 5mV output and provided you also use a linestage with added gain. For a typical LOMC cartridge, even with a SUT, the Leben is problematic.

@lewm

The distinction between gain and drive is crucial, especially in circuits where driving low-impedance loads or handling higher current demands comes into play.

But I was referring to my ‘drive’ as in motivation for tube rolling. I can understand your confusion since you’re not into tube rolling..LOL!

With the right tubes, you can fine-tune the tonal balance, detail, and dynamics to suit your preferences. Since the 12AX7 is so widely used, there’s a treasure trove of options out there, from vintage classics like Telefunken and Mullard to modern production from brands like Gold Lion or JJ.

Cheers!

Softone Model 4 phono continues to improve and today marked a noticeable shift in sound, rendering more relaxed and mesmerizing sound. 

Listening to “When Your Love Is Gone”  from Ben Webster Meets Oscar Peterson - 45RPM….gave me goose bumps. This is easily one of finest performance of Ben’s career…wish there was repeat mode on my TT :-)

@lalitk   : "" 

But I was referring to my ‘drive’ as in motivation for tube rolling. ........

With the right tubes, you can fine-tune the tonal balance, detail, and dynamics to suit your preference ""

It's better an equalizer than any tube rolling strategy.

R.