How do you know it's time for external phono stage

Classe has always made excellent phono stages. I'm not certain about the CAP-100, but apparently the CAP-151's phono stage is the same as that used in their top-of-the-line preamp. The best thing for you to do would be to contact Classe and get information on this, as an external phono stage which significantly betters your own might cost more than your Classe! Your system is, in fact, extremely well balanced, and the Rega P25 an excellent choice. Are there problems? And by the way, I've been thinking about getting the Dynavector DV20HX myself as I value musicality - dynamics, rhythm - above everything else. How is it?

Johnnantais,

The DV20XH is a drastic improvement over the Super Elys in every way. This was a greater upgrade than going from the P3 to the P25. It finally convinced me how much more engaging analog is to CD. BTW, my cdp is a Naim CD3.

What info would I be requesting from Classe?

E.

E,

The fact you heard such drastic differences between cartridges speaks volumes for the quality of your phono stage. It seems to me, having heard the possibilities, you've contracted "upgraditis", even though you're enjoying your system! Phono stages depend largely on power supplies, and Classe are masters of power supply design, which is very expensive. Most outboard phono stages use "wall-warts" and would likely not beat the one you have. The ones that will, cost quite a bit, though some, like the reasonably-priced new Grado and the new Dynavector, might (that's might). Probably the only way to get the info you want is to call them personally and ask them personally how they rate the phono stage. Otherwise, you're on the long and never-ending road to an expensive system: start with the record-player first, unless you want more bass and more detail, in which case start with your speakers. Good Luck.