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I'm thinking about dabbling in Vinyl and am trying to figure out what kind of specs I need for a phono preamp to go along with my Etesian (a "passive" preamp).  From what I can tell, some phono preamps like the Rolls VP29 are out of the picture because they don't offer enough gain.  Any suggestions on more viable choices that won't break the bank?

And is there anyone here running a turntable through their Etesians with success?  If so, what phono preamp are you using?

[SamA]

I'm using a Hagerman Bugle and am very pleased. Is it the best approach? Dunno. But I've never been happier with spinning LPs.

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Thanks for the feedback.

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SamA, forgot to ask, what turntable and cartridge are you using with your Etesian and Bugle?  I'm leaning towards an SL 1200 but still need to learn about cartridges - don't know the first thing about them!  Thanks.

[SamA]

I use a Denon DP45F TT (a five-buck church sale find!!!) and an Ortofon 2M Blue cart. If I'm doing a lot of LP>CD transfers, I'll use that setup with the PC that's in an upstairs workroom.

Then I have a Technics (Model No. I can't recall) with an Ortofon P-mount cart that I'll use in the downstairs listening room set up.

In either case, I'm a happy camper.

[rklein]

Hi:

Here is another option you might consider.  Klaus built me a Tempest Pre which I have just replaced with a SAS Audio 10A pre.  The Tempest was made with B-Stock knobs(which you could replace with new ones if you so desire).  I also saved money because Klaus used a Burgandy face plate instead of going with the traditional black.  The innards are NOT B-Stock. The unit also comes with the HT Bypass(if needed).

The only reason I bring this option to your attention is that the Tempest comes with a phono stage with a switch on the back of the unit for both an MM or MC cartridge.  The Tempest was known for it's excellent phono stage.  The price would be $400 plus shipping.  You would be stepping up in quality as I also have owned the Etesian and the Tempest brought my audio to another level.  The Tempest has worked flawlessly for a little over a year.

rklein

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Thanks for the followup SamA!

Hi:
Here is another option you might consider.  Klaus built me a Tempest Pre which I have just replaced with a SAS Audio 10A pre.  The Tempest was made with B-Stock knobs(which you could replace with new ones if you so desire).  I also saved money because Klaus used a Burgandy face plate instead of going with the traditional black.  The innards are NOT B-Stock. The unit also comes with the HT Bypass(if needed).
The only reason I bring this option to your attention is that the Tempest comes with a phono stage with a switch on the back of the unit for both an MM or MC cartridge.  The Tempest was known for it's excellent phono stage.  The price would be $400 plus shipping.  You would be stepping up in quality as I also have owned the Etesian and the Tempest brought my audio to another level.  The Tempest has worked flawlessly for a little over a year.
rklein

Thanks for the offer.  I'm happy with my Etesian for now.