New Phonostage Options

Mike

Mike

Audioshark
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Joined
Apr 2, 2013
Messages
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Location
Sarasota, FL
I'm thinking of selling the REF2SE and getting a different phonostage. I like the ARC, but I'm looking for a phonostage that might gel more with the Dag gear. I spoke with Dan (the man) last night and I may just wait for his phonostage. But wanted to see if any other options rise to the top. I was thoroughly impressed with the phonostage in the Devialet and that's what got me to thinking....I kind of miss the Zesto....that rich full sound was nice.
 
Mike said:
I'm thinking of selling the REF2SE and getting a different phonostage. I like the ARC, but I'm looking for a phonostage that might gel more with the Dag gear. I spoke with Dan (the man) last night and I may just wait for his phonostage. But wanted to see if any other options rise to the top. I was thoroughly impressed with the phonostage in the Devialet and that's what got me to thinking....I kind of miss the Zesto....that rich full sound was nice.
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I tried a Boulder phono pre recently, 1008, and from what I heard I think it could be a winning combination for you Mike. Either that or the 2008.
 
You might want to borrow a Manley Steelhead from a certain guy around here that isn't using his right now. :)
I've only had my Chinook going for a few hours but if the Steelhead is better than this, wow!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Good suggestions. Too bad the VAC phonostage is so darn expensive!
 
A/V Solutions said:
If your looking to change things up, perhaps look at a different cartridge!! :)
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+1, probably the best way to change the full signature of an analog system. I have a few cartridges and it's amazing how that changes the sound signature of the system. A great cartridge is like great tires under a car, great tires can make a greater difference than changing cars when you are above a certain level of cars.

It's unfortunate that there is no service to try cartridges at home, I would probably pay good money for such a service.

Now I need to buy one Lyra Atlas, Dynavector VS 1T, Benz LP-S, Koestu......... :huh:
 
Mike said:
Good suggestions. Too bad the VAC phonostage is so darn expensive!
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$50k for the vac !! Yikes !!!
Funny I have a phonostage dilemma too . I want to get an external phonostage but I like my internal so much I'm scared I won't like the new one as much.
The zesto is on top of my list as Jeff mentioned to me the zesto would be better to my setup than my dream of a steelhead.
But I think for you and all the gear coming in and out a super adjustable steelhead might be the ticket . And from dealing with manleys awesome customer service, I think everyone should own something manley.
But on the other side a real tubey sound of the zesto might go well with your all s/s setup.
 
I like the Manley....but to be honest, it isn't the most attractive looking.
 
I should add, I really want a phonostage with adjustable RIAA curves. 1953 RIAA curve, 1976 curve, etc.
 
I have tried a number of phono stages and best I have heard (and purchased) is the ARC Ref2se. It has texture and body and transparency. With my Goldfinger Statement it is rich and meaty as anything I have heard. Your 2se may be hard to beat. If Jeff Dorgay is online he has a few of these including the arc simaudio and boulder and has heard them all...he probably has good counsel. I know when I don't have my VTA right the cartridge can sound thin.
 
A/V Solutions said:
If your looking to change things up, perhaps look at a different cartridge!! :)
Click to expand...
Doesn't have to be a different cartridge, with another armtube you can have another cartridge.
I think you need to keep that awesome arc phonostage, and get an AMG with a lyra etna , but what do I know :D
 
OK Mike, you've asked for it! Here are a few of the very best:

Brinkmann Edison
388.jpg



Audio Research Reference Phono 2 SE
Ref2SEInside.JPG



Pass XP 25
WEB-PH-PASS-XP25-open.jpg


Accuphase C27
Phono-Vorverst-rker-Accuphase-C-27-f630x378-ffffff-C-d8f0c261-37653351.jpg



Octave Phono Modul
OCTAVE-PhonoModule-02.jpg



Have fun!

Hans
 
Mike, Have you tried a SUT into your REf2? Bob's Devices, Choir Audio, or Auditorium 23, for example? You could likely get a compatible one on a 30 day trial.

My Shindo pre also has an input for a MC cartridge, but it's not quite as compatible with the Dynavector as the SUT into the MM input.
 
Loop4fun said:
Mike, Have you tried a SUT into your REf2? Bob's Devices, Choir Audio, or Auditorium 23, for example? You could likely get a compatible one on a 30 day trial.

My Shindo pre also has an input for a MC cartridge, but it's not quite as compatible with the Dynavector as the SUT into the MM input.
Click to expand...

The issue isn't volume. The gain on the REF2SE is exceptionally good. Not sure a step up into the MM would yield better results. Just looking for a little more bloom and meat on the bones.
 
Mike, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to imply that is was volume. I actually was referring to what you are looking for, and you could very well get it with an SUT. Each one would likely give different "bloom" and "meat on the bones". Maybe more, maybe less. Each one can be a little different, and also different than the step up in the Ref2.

It would be a different approach (and relatively inexpensive) to try before trading.

Good luck!
 
What price range and tube or SS Mike?
For tube, i'd suggest nagra vps, tron seven or allnic.
Ss i'd suggest pass and trinity phono.
 
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