Chinook vs AR PH5/6

No one mentioned the AR PH6. I have it my system and it is quite nice. I haven't compared it against the other two listed above, since I was replacing my AR PH3 at the time. I have heard the AR REF Phono 2 and it is quite another much much higher level. However it costs quite a bit more also. My suggestion is you probably won't go wrong with the phono stages listed above. But, it is in your best interest to demo each of them at your home in your system before you purchase one, take it home and find it isn't quite up to what you want. So, find some dealers, and ask them to take the models home for a in home demo first. Some stores and dealers have no problem doing this, if 1) they are fairly confident that you will do business with them and 2) your credit card is good.

enjoy

Yes Minor I agree...All components are system dependent therefore try before buy is always best...!

Thanks for the advice, all. After an extensive audition, I decided to buy the Chinook. I don't know if it's the best, but it at least sounds good, and the company seems very reputable. It was as much as I was willing to spend. The others I would buy used, so no chance of home demo. I will keep my eye out for used AR and Allnic, Zesto, etc. I also wonder if something else is the weak link in my audio chain (I have another thread on that one). My analog is not as good as my digital yet, but it's close, and I can listen to my records now, and have a baseline to consider upgrades.

A Great choice Honest...!!! You won't have a problem with matching a cart to it and the sound will get better & better with a little patience. Hope you enjoy it for a long time and if you ever need service EveAnna and Paul are a delight to deal with. I have they're Reference reissue preamp...It's killer!!!

If you analog isn't as good as your digital, there's definitely a problem. See what happens with the Chinook. Also make sure your table is level and on a proper surface. When I moved my turntable to a wall shelf the change was as significant as an upgrade in phono stage or cartridge.