Help Me Narrow My Choices


I am going to buy a new Phono Preamplifier and wanted to hear about your impressions.  My choices are Prima Luna 100 Phono Preamplifier, Sutherland Duo, and McIntosh C8 Tube phono preamplifier. I mostly use an AT VM760SLC cartridge and feed a Bryston SP3 Preamp. I am open to others also and not too particular about tube or SS as long as it provides fast transients and holographic sound stage.  Budget is open but not much part $4000.

mi_foodie

My choice for Preamp and MM Phono is a Vintage Full Featured McIntosh mx110z tube tuner/preamp with two MM inputs, and I use a SUT for MC so I continue to use it’s MM Phono stage..

This one has a nice wood case and recently serviced. IME, this is a rare good price.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650216132-mcintosh-mx110z-preamplifier-receiver/

 

If mine dies, no diddling around, just get another one of them. 

https://www.audiogon.com/systems/11422

I use this to get remote control of volume, mute, balance

https://www.ebay.com/itm/147349997896?mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&campid=5338381866&toolid=10001&customid=79c265ac-7dff-11f1-92ab-623961663931

 

I recommend Zesto, Audio Research, or Conrad Johnson. The highest level... used, best way to go in this category. I have owned Audio Research for my Phone amp for over thirty years. Each time I upgraded I always did a complete search and evaluation of the category and always chose Audio Research Corp. The improvement was always absolutely huge until I got beyond the PH8. Still very substantial after that... but more refinements after as opposed to complete change and improvement. 

I have heard a few of the $4K priced units, but I found a Parasound JC3+ and have never looked back.