[VinceT]

Current gear is a WTL table with dyna 20x2 mc cart. Current speakers are GR research XLS Encores.

I am looking to create a two channel system separate from my combined HT set up. Looking for pre with phono and power amp recommendations under 5k.

I am considering all tube set up, or tube pre with SS power amp.

In regards to going all tube, would appreciate some pre and power amp considerations in order to optimize and match. I never owned tube gear before so looking for a little guidance. I am concerned about synergy and not sure if it is wise to mix tube types etc. with gear. The easiest set up would be a tube phono pre and nice SS power amp. But not sure how much more can be achieved going all tube.

Thanks in advance

[SteveFord]

Probably best bang for the buck is AVA here on this site.

[RPM123]

The Rogue Audio RP-5 should do quite nicely! Available through Audio Advisor and they may even offer a trial period.

[WGH]

AVA Fet Valve CFR Preamplifier with Vision Adjustable Phono Circuit: uses 2 -12AT7 tubes for gain and 2 - 12AU7 tubes as cathode followers $2,428.00

AVA Vision SET 400 Amplifier $2,199.00

The combo is dead quiet, 3-D dimensional, dynamic, not too hot, not too cold, just perfect.

https://avahifi.com/

[VinceT]

Looking at a AI Modulus 3A with John Curl phono boards.

Great match for my current cart. I am not too familiar with the JC phono board, but it is fixed at 47 ohm loading. How big of deal is this, and how flexible is the phono section if I wanted to make a cart upgrade in the future?

[tinkerphile]

RE: SE Tube preamp to SS amp; it really depends on the amp and preamp very specifically.  Generally, impedance matching is critical.  Next and again generally, is amplifier architecture.  For example, if I'm not mistaken, Nelson Pass has written his amps are designed for balanced operation (I know some folk have said otherwise, but I'm not convinced personally), so SE tubes into Pass balanced (together with impedance matching issues) may be unwise.