[TONEPUB]

Watch for TONE Audio issue 10 in June...

We are using a group of great phono preamps from ASR (the basis mini at $900),
the Aquos 2CI ($1000), the new offering from MOON ($1500) and a few others.

Not going to be a shootout per se, but an overview of what makes each one of
these great phono preamps a good choice at that price point.

[vinyl anachronist]

The ASR is a very interesting unit...it looks like it would cost much more than $900.  I heard it briefly this week over at Jeff's, and I'm hoping to get a shot at it after he's done.

My favorites in this price range have always been the fi Yph and the Tom Evans Audio Microgroove.  The fi is very, very tubelike in its sound, and will make your entire system sound like tubes no matter what kind of amplification you're using.  The Tom Evans is completely different, very clean and neutral, but not at all harsh.  And it's dead quiet, too.

[TONEPUB]

That ASR is really shaping up as it's breaking in...

Pretty sweet little phono stage.  Our classical editor has
the big Basis, that is battery powered and it is phenominal!

Look for a comparison review of it and the Aesthetix IO
in the April issue of TONE Audio, but this one is for those
with deep pockets!!

[mtodde]

Thanks Jeff.  This is exactly the kind of review I'm interested in...although I'm not in the market for a phono stage, LOL.  My SWLP is wonderful.

[TONEPUB]

Glad you are enjoying the SWLP...

Marc will be doing an in-depth review in a few months.
Dan Wright has been so busy building them, he hasn't
had a spare one for review!!

[mmakshak]

  I thought the Moon was $600-or was that Sim?

[TONEPUB]

there is a new moon (or Sim, same company) that is only 600 bucks, however
this one is the 1500 dollar model...