| Columns Retired Columns & Blogs |
April 30, 2015 - 11:43am
#1
Phono Preamp Suggestions ? 400-700 Dollar range..
| Loudspeakers Amplification Digital Sources | |
Analog Sources Accessories Featured | |
Music Columns Retired Columns | |
Show Reports | |
Features Latest News Community | |
Resources Subscriptions |
© 2024 StereophileAVTech Media Americas Inc., USA
All rights reserved
My recommendation for that price range is the Musical Fidelity M1LPS, which is really excellent and is listed at only $449.
I can tell you from personal experience that it sounds better than almost any tube or solid-state phono preamp selling for under $1000.
It is amazingly good for such a low price.
It even sounds significantly better than my vacuum tube Audio Research PH5, which originally cost me $2000.
My concern is that using a MC Cartridge that I would get a Phono Preamp that would not have enough gain, or one that would not allow me to manipulate such. Hence, the Pro-Ject Tubebox DS is sitting on top of my wish list right now. Also, tubes can be rolled. I dunno. I wish I could listen to them both on my own system to make an assessment. Thank you for your recommendation, I may be able to source a dealer in the Philly area that carries Musical Fidelity.
The MF preamp has both a MC and MC input, so the gain should work for any cartridge.
You can get it from Audio Advisor and return it if it does not suit you; you have 30 days to check it out.
MC and MM. Through hole construction means it's very easy to replace the relatively cheap electrolytics for even better performance.
The Jolida is actually what I would plan on buying. It is widely known as the best under $1,000 and there are a serious amount of different mods for it so you can tweak it to your precise desire; or just trust Jolida and stay stock.
Having said all of this, for now I'm totally satisfied with my Cambridge.
Cheers,
Ron
My system:http://www.stereophile.com/content/improved-critical-listening-final-gallery-post