High Value Phono Stages


The current phono stage is an Esoteric E-03, which I am quite content with. I have an Origin Live Agile w Transfiguration Proteus on one input and an OG Kiseki Blackheart on an Audiomods 12" Series 6 on the other. 

I have a third tonearm, an Audiomods 10.5" Series 6 in the system with a Benz Micro Glider on it going into the onboard phono stage of the Trinov. Which is OK, but not excellent. I have a 4th tonearm that may come into play some day. 

So what do you like in good quality phono stages that may not be TOTL pieces. I know the Darlington is a popular answer. Graham Slee often is. Some folks like the SOTA Pyxi. 

Thoughts on output devices, topology and so forth are certainly welcome. Not a SUT user so that is not on the table. I have to admit that small format stages are interesting, like the Ray Samuels Nighthawk. 

 

Any thoughts?

neonknight

A bit of info recently passed to me by a group of which a few have moved on from Millet Design Phon's.

 

I am using a case  and other bits   plus valves I already had so total cost to me was £166 fully populated boards. The full kit (£479 kit or £849 assembled) has volume control selector switch ( line level non amplified plus phono) and a nice case with protruding valves.

https://the-ear.net/review-hardware/zinamp-phono-stage-vinyl-and-valves/

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I really enjoyed your phono stage Peter - a real giant killer. My preference was for the middle variant with your M1837's David. I thought that the final selection of valves with the Brimar was just a bit over the top dynamically for me.

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Peter’s phono was very impressive and one wonders why commercial phone stages cost so much. Maybe it’s to do with the bling factor, with the physical visual impression being an over riding factor against the modest “hidden away” look of the DIY box.  Certainly, the sound was extremely good.
David’s skill and judgment as an exert Tube-Roller came into the fore and the change in Tubes certainly displayed a change in sound - not necessarily better, but certainly different.  

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I thought that Peter's very modestly priced D.I.Y. phono stage served up an excellent performance on the day. In fact, I'm confident that any listener would be hard pressed to find fault with the presentation which was both detailed and organic. The bass in particular was a standout for me being surprisingly 'meaty' and articulate

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The MoFi MasterPhono is worth checking out. I also have an OL Agile which is a great tonearm.

Pindac, in the quoted comments above, does “Peter” refer to Pete Millet, the designer and builder of the LR phono circuit (uses inductors and resistors to create the RIAA filter, no capacitors)? Thanks.

Peter in the Post is not Pete Millet, but a indidual very adept at electronics where Pre's - Phon's - DACs are concerned. 

Peter and two others at this group assessment have produced Pete Millet design Phon's. 

I have no issues with reports from this Group, and the most trusted person I know where Valves are concerned was present, with immaculate condition Valve to loan for the occasion, such Valve types really do create something very special.

The only downside is I missed this meet up.