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  1. #1

    Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    As I’m getting a new amp w/o in-built phono option due to the negative effects on SQ, I’m pondering over phono options. Here are some that come to mind:

    Channel D - Lino C
    Current mode phono pre, battery operated and technically a quite smart concept.

    Pass XP-27
    Trusty partner from a trusty amp specialist. Does many things right, very little wrong. But still doesn’t quite excite me.

    Lampizator MC-1
    Interesting tube phono from tube DAC specialist Lukasz Fikus. A nice offering, but quite niche. Optimized for low-output MCs, like my Lyra Etna Lambda SL. Have heard it and am intrigued.

    Brinkmann Edison II
    Re-worked renown phono-pre. For sure good, but the re-work was rather superficial and the concept has been around for a while. Well reviewed.

    Aurorasound Vida
    Japanese phono amp specialist. Quite versatile and well reviewed. Retro design is an acquired taste IMHO.

    Btw, am not going to venture into a 50K Boulder or Ypsilon phono stage.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  2. #2
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Maybe have a look at this one:

    Parametric Phono Equalizer - Thöress
    hifi:
    power: Audioplan Powerstar, Audioplan Finefilter, Audioplan Powerplant, Powercord
    tube amp: Jadis DA 50 Signature RC, Line Magnetic 508ia
    speaker: Living Voice Avatar 2
    turntable: Pro-Ject Xtension 10 + Ortofon Quintet Black MC
    phono stage: Remton 383 MKII
    cables: Audioplan Musicable bic 7a, Profigold, Wilbrand

    home-cinema: Sony blu-ray, Yamaha rx v2700, Heco Metas 700 (4x), Heco center

  3. #3
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    I have the lampizator MC2/ Silver edition. It is essentially the mc1, with the ability to support many cartridges. I absolutely love it. You have many good options in that list.


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    Amplification: DartZeel 468 (2) // DartZeel NHB18NS Mk. II
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    Equalizer/Phono Pre: DSAudio Master3
    Speakers: TAD R-1 MkII, REL Six Pack of REL Carbon Specials
    Power: Nordost QBase8 Mk3, QX4, Qkore1, 3 and 6 (chassis), QK1 (2), QV2 (2), Chord GroundAray (signal), Chord Line Aray (3), Chord Professional, AddPOWR EAU2 (2)
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    CMS Ultra 2.0 Footers TT (2) and TD (2), Revopods (2) and SortKones and EVPs where they work
    Critical Mass Systems Ultra-Q Rack > Silence Focus Amp Stands

  4. #4
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    I have the PASS XP-27. Well built, very flexible, lots of gain, sounds terrific and won’t break the bank.
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  5. #5

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Hounddog View Post
    I have the lampizator MC2/ Silver edition. It is essentially the mc1, with the ability to support many cartridges. I absolutely love it. You have many good options in that list.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    I do have an offer from Lukasz for an MC1 with all the silver upgrades, with balanced outputs and a mono switch.

    I’m pretty sure I will go for it, just doing a final market check.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  6. #6

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    from GermanyTop Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    https://blueamp.de/produkt-1


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  7. #7

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Why not the Audionet PAM G2 +EPX Power Supply to match your Humboldt?

    It may not be the scientist series but, you can sell it for when the Scientist Series phono stage is released.

  8. #8
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    I had the Lino C 2.0 its quite good, maybe the best for anywhere near the price but its strictly for LOMC with a DCR <10 ohms or so. As you know its a current mode design, differentially balanced and exceptionally quiet. Around that time I had a Burmester 100 and Boulder 1008 phono in the house both voltage gain designs, in different systems they were all capable of outshining the other.

    Presently I have two separate TTs set-ups, one using the phono input of a Soulution 520 (voltage gain design), the other a BMC MCCI ULN. The BMC is my current benchmark, it has few flaws in my mind and is exceptional at revealing ultra fine musical information that's buried by noise and other artifacts in other 'stages. its also a current mode design so carts like the Haniwa, My Sonic Lab, SL versions of the Lyras, most Koetsus, XV series Dynavectors and low output ZYX carts are all good matches.

  9. #9
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    The CS Port phono stage that I am using with my Etsuro Gold(mg) cartridge now is, I think, fully run in. It is a very big step up from my Einstein. Not easily available in the states, I got mine from Mik in the UK. He swears its competitive with any phono stage. Uses the same tubes as the Ypsilon. 1 mc input, 2 mm inputs. Amazing musicality, liquidity, and flow. Not terribly expensive.

  10. #10
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    I do have an offer from Lukasz for an MC1 with all the silver upgrades, with balanced outputs and a mono switch.

    I’m pretty sure I will go for it, just doing a final market check.
    for a tubed phono optimized for LOMC carts, thomas mayer D3a phono amps should probably be part of your due-diligence.

    Phono preamplifiers by Thomas Mayer - VinylSavor - Thomas Mayer
    viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | air tight atc-5 + atm-300r | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + kanjiroba diy transport + roon rock
    alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii

  11. #11

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by puroagave View Post
    I had the Lino C 2.0 its quite good, maybe the best for anywhere near the price but its strictly for LOMC with a DCR <10 ohms or so. As you know its a current mode design, differentially balanced and exceptionally quiet. Around that time I had a Burmester 100 and Boulder 1008 phono in the house both voltage gain designs, in different systems they were all capable of outshining the other.

    Presently I have two separate TTs set-ups, one using the phono input of a Soulution 520 (voltage gain design), the other a BMC MCCI ULN. The BMC is my current benchmark, it has few flaws in my mind and is exceptional at revealing ultra fine musical information that's buried by noise and other artifacts in other 'stages. its also a current mode design so carts like the Haniwa, My Sonic Lab, SL versions of the Lyras, most Koetsus, XV series Dynavectors and low output ZYX carts are all good matches.
    Thanks, good choices. Currently I also run my phono through the in-built Soulution 520 phono pre.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  12. #12

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Elztalbiker View Post
    from GermanyTop Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    model 42 MK III – BLUE AMP


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    I know the Blue Amp, and have been talking to the developer. I find him too arrogant to be credible. But I do have friends though who have the Blu Amp 42.

    The concept is already quite dated though. And for 16K for the mk3 version I find it overpriced for what it does.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  13. #13

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by mdp632 View Post
    Why not the Audionet PAM G2 +EPX Power Supply to match your Humboldt?

    It may not be the scientist series but, you can sell it for when the Scientist Series phono stage is released.
    Valid point. I’m just not so much enamored with the old Audionet sound.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  14. #14

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Bobvin View Post
    The CS Port phono stage that I am using with my Etsuro Gold(mg) cartridge now is, I think, fully run in. It is a very big step up from my Einstein. Not easily available in the states, I got mine from Mik in the UK. He swears its competitive with any phono stage. Uses the same tubes as the Ypsilon. 1 mc input, 2 mm inputs. Amazing musicality, liquidity, and flow. Not terribly expensive.
    Very interesting concept, as I find - thanks. Design might be slightly an acquired taste.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  15. #15

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by aKnyght View Post
    for a tubed phono optimized for LOMC carts, thomas mayer D3a phono amps should probably be part of your due-diligence.

    Phono preamplifiers by Thomas Mayer - VinylSavor - Thomas Mayer
    I would put this into the same category as Lampizator. At least as an inventor-driven approach.

    However, the Lampi’s might be a bit more established internationally. That is likely yield a better re-sell value eventually.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  16. #16

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Thank you everyone for the great ideas. That gives me a bit to ponder about.

    Much appreciated.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  17. #17
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Very interesting concept, as I find - thanks. Design might be slightly an acquired taste.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    They now have a model with a more generic faceplate, absent the ‘swoosh’.

  18. #18
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    VDH Grail (SB)
    Merril Jens Phono Stage
    Pre amp: Ocatve Phono Module Power amps: Octave MRE130 Turntable: SAC Girati Grande. Tonearm: Dynavector 507mkII Cartridge: Dynavector Ikeda 9TT Streamer: Aurender A10 Power Distributor: Anzus Mains D8 Speakers: Raidho X-3 Speaker Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 XLR Interlink: Ansuz A2, [B]XLR Interlink: [B]Phono interlink: Cammino Serie 1.0 - PH 1.0s Power cables: Anzus Mains Ceramic, two Pom, Aluminium, X series Audio Rack: Rack of Silence 4 and 2.

  19. #19
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by mdp632 View Post
    when the Scientist Series phono stage is released.
    excellent point.
    very imaginable this to be the best match.and it would be the only one i d buy without a listening prior. only for the reason the matching is guaranteed. key point imho.
    if i remember right it should have been presented spring 2020 already...so may be worth calling audionet whether things are ready or not.

    according to my dealer, nagra classic phono is among the very very best if not the best today.

    i think you will be satisfayed with the humboldt and will keep it a long time.
    in that sense i d take my time choosing a very pleasant match.
    these toys are too painfully expensive to go wrong. selling a used phono pre, even if only one week old, goes along with dramatic loss.
    probably you are less in a rush than you think. when the amp arrives it takes a couple of weeks for the break in.
    however, good luck!

  20. #20
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    I have seen it mentioned in some reviews, such as the recent Tidal review, that the SimAudio Moon 810LP can hold its own with virtually anything on the market. Mike is also a dealer.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  21. #21

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by mdp632 View Post
    It may not be the scientist series but, you can sell it for when the Scientist Series phono stage is released.
    Miguel, I kind of missed the second part of your comment. Sorty for that.

    Has there been some indication that a Scientist Series phono pre might be released?


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  22. #22

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Miguel, I kind of missed the second part of your comment. Sorty for that.

    Has there been some indication that a Scientist Series phono pre might be released?


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

    No worries. Nothing more than a rumor.

    I remember when the Heisenberg/Stern first came out and I made a comment to a dealer and asked what's next for this Scientist series.

    He responded with a "Source" component. This was back in 2019. COVID was 2020 and now we are 2021.

    Now, I speculated that this would be in fact a phono stage. Given, that Audionet really isn't a digital company per say. Although , I know they offer CD players and Dacs/Streamers.

    Personally, if it was me , can you wait until Munich 2021 before buying ? :-)

    *If a new product in the Audionet Scientist series makes its debut, I'd bet that would be the ideal venue.

  23. #23
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by u-sound View Post
    if i remember right it should have been presented spring 2020 already...so may be worth calling audionet whether things are ready or not.
    just found a review of pam g2, not sur how long the g2 is on the market already. however, the scientist phono pre presentation was planned for the münich high-end 2020.

    http://www.audionet.de/wp-content/up...net-PAM-G2.pdf

  24. #24
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Years ago I had a FMA 122, and I found it to be my end-game phono.

    The FMA replaced a Goldmund Mimesis (don't remember the number--age!), which in turn had replaced an Octave & the phono section of a CAT Ultimate preamp and the phono section of a two-box Symphonic Line RG3.

    The FMA easily outclassed all the other phonos I had & tried.
    The next model up (123, presumably) is also a very handy & versatile tool, offering a variety of curves, gains, and input loadings...
    Not cheap, but nowhere near the outrageous price category
    Music library: c. 4.5T digital, c.3.5k LPs & CDs
    Digital source: Optimised Mini X -- Musichi player external linear PS; DAC: (MSB Select II), Ideon Audio Ayazi II, 2x Ideon 3R Master Time signal reclocking external linear PS; Analogue source: TT: (S-Yorke S7/ S-Yorke S4 - Pluto 6) / Pro ject Xtension 12'΄; Active pre: Borbely Reference; Passive pre: Stevens & Billington; Amp: Symphonic Line Kraft; Speaker sstm: Devore / ProAc / SUBs: SVS Cabling: Bearlabs, Nordost Valhalla, bespoke; Isolation: bespoke rack with hanging shelves, Neuance shelves, Nordost pulsar points, various cones (metal, ceramic, etc);

  25. #25
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Gregm View Post
    Years ago I had a FMA 122, and I found it to be my end-game phono.

    The FMA replaced a Goldmund Mimesis (don't remember the number--age!), which in turn had replaced an Octave & the phono section of a CAT Ultimate preamp and the phono section of a two-box Symphonic Line RG3.

    The FMA easily outclassed all the other phonos I had & tried.
    The next model up (123, presumably) is also a very handy & versatile tool, offering a variety of curves, gains, and input loadings...
    Not cheap, but nowhere near the outrageous price category
    Can you tell me about about the difference in sound between the different amps you had.
    Pre amp: Ocatve Phono Module Power amps: Octave MRE130 Turntable: SAC Girati Grande. Tonearm: Dynavector 507mkII Cartridge: Dynavector Ikeda 9TT Streamer: Aurender A10 Power Distributor: Anzus Mains D8 Speakers: Raidho X-3 Speaker Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 XLR Interlink: Ansuz A2, [B]XLR Interlink: [B]Phono interlink: Cammino Serie 1.0 - PH 1.0s Power cables: Anzus Mains Ceramic, two Pom, Aluminium, X series Audio Rack: Rack of Silence 4 and 2.

  26. #26
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mordante View Post
    Can you tell me about about the difference in sound between the different amps you had.
    The two immediately perceptible differences:
    Much more clarity (i.e. resolution), top to bottom frequencies, and more extension especially in the bottom frequencies, even compared to the Goldmund which has extended HF reproduction.
    The other characteristic was increased and more palpable dynamics. The FMA phono outclassed all the others in that respect as well. Regards
    Music library: c. 4.5T digital, c.3.5k LPs & CDs
    Digital source: Optimised Mini X -- Musichi player external linear PS; DAC: (MSB Select II), Ideon Audio Ayazi II, 2x Ideon 3R Master Time signal reclocking external linear PS; Analogue source: TT: (S-Yorke S7/ S-Yorke S4 - Pluto 6) / Pro ject Xtension 12'΄; Active pre: Borbely Reference; Passive pre: Stevens & Billington; Amp: Symphonic Line Kraft; Speaker sstm: Devore / ProAc / SUBs: SVS Cabling: Bearlabs, Nordost Valhalla, bespoke; Isolation: bespoke rack with hanging shelves, Neuance shelves, Nordost pulsar points, various cones (metal, ceramic, etc);

  27. #27
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Gregm View Post
    Years ago I had a FMA 122, and I found it to be my end-game phono.

    The FMA replaced a Goldmund Mimesis (don't remember the number--age!), which in turn had replaced an Octave & the phono section of a CAT Ultimate preamp and the phono section of a two-box Symphonic Line RG3.

    The FMA easily outclassed all the other phonos I had & tried.
    The next model up (123, presumably) is also a very handy & versatile tool, offering a variety of curves, gains, and input loadings...
    Not cheap, but nowhere near the outrageous price category
    The FMA is fantastic ...

  28. #28
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    MC2 ...!

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    I do have an offer from Lukasz for an MC1 with all the silver upgrades, with balanced outputs and a mono switch.

    I’m pretty sure I will go for it, just doing a final market check.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

  29. #29
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind? whatever Mike sells.
    2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)

  30. #30
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by CPP View Post
    Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind? whatever Mike sells.
    I like the Pass XP27 for solid state. It all depends on budget.


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  31. #31
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    I do have an offer from Lukasz for an MC1 with all the silver upgrades, with balanced outputs and a mono switch.

    I’m pretty sure I will go for it, just doing a final market check.


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    i forgot or thought you would know:
    audionet strongly recommends using the rca in and outputs for the scientist series!!

  32. #32
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I like the Pass XP27 for solid state. It all depends on budget.
    Hey Mike, just curious, have you ever had one of the higher Moon's in the store and compared them? I was very impressed by the conversations about the 810 in the Tidal review(s).
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  33. #33
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Hey Mike, just curious, have you ever had one of the higher Moon's in the store and compared them? I was very impressed by the conversations about the 810 in the Tidal review(s).
    We haven’t, but the 110LP and 310LP are excellent. We buy the 110LP’s buy the case load!


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  34. #34

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Can someone put this in the right forum?

  35. #35

    Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I like the Pass XP27 for solid state. It all depends on budget.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    I think it’s a great phono pre, not ruling it out yet.

    Mike, how would you describe the sound singnature? More towards full and warm, like the power amps, or rather transparent and detailed?

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  36. #36

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by a.wayne View Post
    MC2 ...!
    Nope, custom designed MC1 with a MC2 board Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?.


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    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

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  37. #37

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by mdp632 View Post
    No worries. Nothing more than a rumor.

    I remember when the Heisenberg/Stern first came out and I made a comment to a dealer and asked what's next for this Scientist series.

    He responded with a "Source" component. This was back in 2019. COVID was 2020 and now we are 2021.

    Now, I speculated that this would be in fact a phono stage. Given, that Audionet really isn't a digital company per say. Although , I know they offer CD players and Dacs/Streamers.

    Personally, if it was me , can you wait until Munich 2021 before buying ? :-)

    *If a new product in the Audionet Scientist series makes its debut, I'd bet that would be the ideal venue.
    Interesting to see whether there are any news in the coming months, maybe at the Munich High End (pushed to the autumn).


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    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

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    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

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  38. #38
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by puroagave View Post
    I had the Lino C 2.0 its quite good, maybe the best for anywhere near the price but its strictly for LOMC with a DCR <10 ohms or so. As you know its a current mode design, differentially balanced and exceptionally quiet. Around that time I had a Burmester 100 and Boulder 1008 phono in the house both voltage gain designs, in different systems they were all capable of outshining the other.

    Presently I have two separate TTs set-ups, one using the phono input of a Soulution 520 (voltage gain design), the other a BMC MCCI ULN. The BMC is my current benchmark, it has few flaws in my mind and is exceptional at revealing ultra fine musical information that's buried by noise and other artifacts in other 'stages. its also a current mode design so carts like the Haniwa, My Sonic Lab, SL versions of the Lyras, most Koetsus, XV series Dynavectors and low output ZYX carts are all good matches.
    Hi Puroagave,

    I am interested in the Channel D Lino 3.0 I currently have the BMC MCCI ULN phonostage. How do you compare the Channel D Lino to the MCCI? Is the MCCI better? In what ways, please. Appreciate your inputs

  39. #39
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by ddriveman View Post
    Hi Puroagave,

    I am interested in the Channel D Lino 3.0 I currently have the BMC MCCI ULN phono stage. How do you compare the Channel D Lino to the MCCI? Is the MCCI better? In what ways, please. Appreciate your inputs
    I had the Lino 2.0 which was Dr. Rob's launch version. The Latest 3.0 now has three inputs, switchable between voltage and current mode. An optional MM input and mono switch is also available. the floor noise is supposed to be lower still than the 2.0 which was already super quiret. The BMC ULN is one of the top 5 I've had in my system, that said the Lino 3.0 might get the nod because of all the added features and improved circuit. I've moved on to the DS Audio/EMM Labs phono combination which in my system was another sonic leap forward.

  40. #40
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by puroagave View Post
    I had the Lino 2.0 which was Dr. Rob's launch version. The Latest 3.0 now has three inputs, switchable between voltage and current mode. An optional MM input and mono switch is also available. the floor noise is supposed to be lower still than the 2.0 which was already super quiet. The BMC ULN is one of the top 5 I've had in my system, that said the Lino 3.0 might get the nod because of all the added features and improved circuit. I've moved on to the DS Audio/EMM Labs phono combination which in my system was another sonic leap forward.
    Hi,

    Thanks for your helpful reply. I now have the Lino C 3 on order with 3 inputs, 1 MC current, 1 MC voltage and 1 MM. Let's see how it compares to my BMC. You mentioned that the BMC is one of the top 5 that you've had. What are the other ones please
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  41. #41
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Boulder 1008, Burmester 100, Jeff Rowland Cadence, Klyne 7PX3 and Whest PS.40RDT.

  42. #42
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Thank you. That's very helpful. How do you think the BMC and the Lino C compares with the Whest PS.40RDT? Are they ahead?
    Single Ended Journey:

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  43. #43
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    At the time I owned the Cadence which was mo' betta. From memory the Whest was a little more etch a sketch (detailed) YMMV.

    PM me for more info so we don't clog the system.

  44. #44

    Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    I ended up getting the Brinkmann Edison mk2 and do love it for it’s magnificent sound, rich feature set, amazing versatility, tube power supply, and cool design.

    After discussing details with the manufacturer I understood the mk2 re-design was more profound than I previously understood.



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    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  45. #45
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    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Congratulation on your new Edison MK2, its a great phono, very musical, and good fun all arounder (I'm using one myself for last year and a half).

    To pass the Edison performance you will need something like CH Precision phono or the big Boulder phono
    Enjoy your new phonostage.

  46. #46

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Goldmund Mimesis PH3.8 Nextgen and Doshi Audio Evo phonostages. No slouches in the phonostage department.

    Plus plenty of gain and totally quiet for practically all phono cartridges. Used down to a 0.15 mV cartridge (Ikeda) with the Doshi with no issues. Doshi offers much more flexibility when it comes to loading options that are remotely controlled. In fact, can set two loading values for one cartridge with the Doshi and flip between them to compare sonic effects.
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  47. #47

    Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by exupgh12 View Post
    Congratulation on your new Edison MK2, its a great phono, very musical, and good fun all arounder (I'm using one myself for last year and a half).

    To pass the Edison performance you will need something like CH Precision phono or the big Boulder phono
    Enjoy your new phonostage.
    Nice to find another Edison mk2 owner, indeed a very nice phono pre.

    I also agree with your statement, there are better but you need to cough up the big bucks to get something beyond.


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    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

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  48. #48

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Myles B. Astor View Post
    Goldmund Mimesis PH3.8 Nextgen and Doshi Audio Evo phonostages. No slouches in the phonostage department.

    Plus plenty of gain and totally quiet for practically all phono cartridges. Used down to a 0.15 mV cartridge (Ikeda) with the Doshi with no issues. Doshi offers much more flexibility when it comes to loading options that are remotely controlled. In fact, can set two loading values for one cartridge with the Doshi and flip between them to compare sonic effects.
    Nice phono pre’s Myles, very nice additions to the thread. I especially like the Goldmund transparency.


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    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  49. #49
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2017
    Location
    Seattle Washington USA
    Posts
    1,168

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Has anyone heard.a.CJ Tea?

    I am super close to getting a Lino C3.3 with the rumble filter, mono switch, phase switch and, precision resistors.

    I have had at my house a Rada Precious. Great pre.

    Lehmann Silver Cube. Again, very good.

    Hagerman Trumpet. Again, very pleasing all around.

    I did not purchase any of them due to RF in my room creating noise issues.

    I tried 2 others but they did not move me at all. They were dead quiet.
    My Allnic H1201. Is quiet. Not totally, but very quiet. Its good, but not anywherr near as engsging as the 3 I mentioned above.

    The Rada was the best of the 3. If I did not have severe RF, I would have kept it. Keep in mind, you need a SUT with the Rada.

  50. #50
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    "Clueless" in California
    Posts
    1,318

    Re: Top Phono Stages - what comes to mind?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kingrex View Post
    Has anyone heard.a.CJ Tea?

    I am super close to getting a Lino C3.3 with the rumble filter, mono switch, phase switch and, precision resistors.

    I have had at my house a Rada Precious. Great pre.

    Lehmann Silver Cube. Again, very good.

    Hagerman Trumpet. Again, very pleasing all around.

    I did not purchase any of them due to RF in my room creating noise issues.

    I tried 2 others but they did not move me at all. They were dead quiet.
    My Allnic H1201. Is quiet. Not totally, but very quiet. Its good, but not anywherr near as engsging as the 3 I mentioned above.

    The Rada was the best of the 3. If I did not have severe RF, I would have kept it. Keep in mind, you need a SUT with the Rada.
    I endorsed the Lino C, but keep in mind its optimized for carts with very low DCRs. What if you prefer MC carts by VdH, Allaerts , Benz-Micro and many others with highish DCRs? you're back to a quasi-voltage gain solution. I recently acquired the Esoteric E-02 through Mike at Suncoast. Its got 3 inputs, MC/MM selectable incl mono switch for any or all inputs and fully balanced throughputs via one set of XLR the other two RCA. It also has cartridge de-mag function. It's the best sounding phono stage I've owned for the money which includes the Burmester 100 and discontinued Boulder 1008. The E-02 portrays music with texture and the tonal density I get from tubes and the highly resolving, ultra quiet, low-hum (no-hum?) backgrounds you get from SS, like the Lino C and BMC ULN

    Esoteric E-02 Phonostage

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