phono preamp query

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Mr Peabody

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The analog area is broken out into separate threads but not one for phono stage so hope this is where my question goes.

As you see below I'm using Clearaudio table and cart, I was wondering if anyone has noticed any phono stages that has a good synergy with Clearaudio? I'm assuming the various aspects of an analog rig would have the same synergy positives/negatives as other components.

I have no complaints with my Acoustech Ph-1 Premere, basically a Sutherland. I've had it for years and have not played with trying any other so I'm curious. I have noticed Musical Surroundings stages always seem to sound good with Clearaudio.

Analog I find difficult, seems it's the wild west regarding set ups and how people match the elements of a rig. My goal is to attempt having all elements in the same range of performance, finding that is like cleaning up mercury, based on recommendations. And, trial and error is not a road I really want to travel. :)

I would like to keep the budget around $2k or less. The PH-1P was $1695.00 back in the day and I'm wondering if I can even best it for $2k. One thing I don't like about it is having to take the cover off to change settings, on the other hand it's not something I'd do every day.

I don't seem to hear much about the Clearaudio stages.

You probably wouldn't guess I've been playing vinyl since about the 4th grade when I got my first record player. It wasn't until about 20 years ago though I entered the world of "higher end" tables with my Rega P3, I used that up to a couple years ago when I got my current rig. Before that, not going all the way back, I used a Pioneer direct drive for over another 20 years. So I have the time in but not much experience with different brands.
 
Hello,

Have you ever listened to any of the upper Lehmann offerings? The Lehmann Black Cube SE II (two chassis model) is a great phono stage for the money IMO.

Here's a post with some links to Fremer's comments: http://http://www.audioshark.org/showthread.php?t=8873&p=153198&viewfull=1#post153198

I've never heard this phono stage with a Clearaudio turntable myself so YMMV, but I do recall a friend saying the Lehmann did well in his rig that also had the Performance DC.
 
Hi;

When I really had the bug to switch the 2 chassis Lehmann was on my list. A small dealer has the regular Black Cube, I may see if I can borrow it just to get a feel for the character. The Parasound gets good reviews as well. There's always another Sutherland, which seems well spoken of but I have heard they can be laid back. The Lehmann got my interest because it seems to be more of a lively piece. The Fremer review is good, Lehmann has my curiosity, it seems when people talk about them, there's something they want to say but don't. Like it has something that people aren't certain just everyone would like. May just be my perception.

MikeCh said:
Hello,

Have you ever listened to any of the upper Lehmann offerings? The Lehmann Black Cube SE II (two chassis model) is a great phono stage for the money IMO.

Here's a post with some links to Fremer's comments: http://http://www.audioshark.org/showthread.php?t=8873&p=153198&viewfull=1#post153198

I've never heard this phono stage with a Clearaudio turntable myself so YMMV, but I do recall a friend saying the Lehmann did well in his rig that also had the Performance DC.
Click to expand...
 
I'm not sure if the regular Black Cube would give you a feel for the SE II version or not. I've never heard the non SE II model. Maybe call a dealer and see what they say for character-reference between the two?
 
I have to throw a mention to my primary phono preamp which is a little higher than your budget, but worth looking into if you ever listen to any older mono lp's: Sentec EQ-11. It's got six selectable phono eq curves including RIAA.

http://www.stereophile.com/content/sentec-eq11-phono-preamplifier#bZl9qAMV6QXro3br.97

Outfitted with primo tubes, its a wonderful sounding preamp and is super quiet too. I feed it with an A23 SUT for my MC carts.
 
I would say the Lehman and Clearaudio pres are good, but if you desire highend performance you might want to spend a bit more.

After buying a couple phono stages in your suggested price range in a quick succession, I went a step higher and settled for the Grandinote Celio, which I am very happy with.


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the EAR is pretty common in that price range

a good inexpensive option is the $700 Jade phono stage - I know some folks that prefer it to the Manley Steelhead :disbelief:
 
I have heard the phono amp you use, albeit very briefly. However I doubt you will find a better phono amp within your budget. Different most likely, much better, not so sure. If you buy new. Secondhand there might be opportunities.
 
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