AcousTech Electronics PH-1 phono preamplifier Page 3

The AcousTech was quiet enough to satisfy most analog lovers, but did exhibit more steady-state roar than the Linn. The difference was small, but for those sensitive to such things, perhaps significant. I was not bothered by it.

The Linn threw a wider soundstage, which I liked. The AcousTech's soundstage was tighter and more focused. This was very noticeable on "In Your Mind," where the Linn had musicians placed to the outsides of my speakers. On the other hand, the way they were bunched together with the AcousTech gave the performers a palpability that was very convincing. It was really just a matter of degree; different ears will prefer one over the other.

The two were tightly matched tonally, but the AcousTech had a slightly richer, warmer lower midrange, especially noticeable on massed male vocals, such as on the Karajan A;dida with the Singverein der Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde (Decca/Speakers Corner reissue SXL 2167/8/9, 3 LPs). With the PH-1, the moody atmosphere seemed particularly ripe, and the men's voices had a texture and opulence that the Linto just missed creating.

There certainly were other differences, but most of them were too close to call. I don't doubt that everyone comparing the two will have a favorite; I just couldn't, for the life of me, predict which might appeal more to another pair of ears.

As for myself? I'm probably going to buy the Linn, but when I listen to that Verdi, I start to waver. I'll probably go back and forth a few more times before I decide for sure.

People get ready
Both the Linn Linto phono preamplifier and the AcousTech Electronics PH-1 phono preamplifier personify what the High End is all about. Both offer superior engineering in the service of music reproduction, and both provide sound quality that would have been inconceivable at any price a scant five years ago.

No one could call them cheap, but you can spend a lot more than either one costs and not achieve better sound quality. Of course, there are more expensive units out there that do offer better sound, but you'd have to spend considerably more to obtain a musically significant improvement.

I like 'em both, and recommend both without reservation. Technology serving art is what the High End is all about. If you're looking to improve the sound of your record-playing system, you should listen to these two units first. It could be a while before you'll need to look any further.

COMPANY INFO
AcousTech Electronics
1000 W. Elm Street
Salina, KS 67402
(913) 825-8609
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