Hi I've posted a review of a Paul Hynes Design - Concert Veron - phono pre amp but realised I probably posted it in the wrong section i.e. amplification.
I've also probably done it a dis-service to be honest as I was writing from memory,and i don't think my review reflects my views. It had been sent back as I was getting a loud thump through the speakers when lights were turned on or off in the house.Paul Hynes fitted a sub sonic filter which Paul said will be fitted as standard now.Paul refunded the postage to me also.I got it back the other day and I thought my review was a bit tepid in it's praise.
My VTA was way out also (too high by a considerable amount) (not sure why) but I've been messing about with a Lenco which I intend to make a plinth for and I think I was looking at my arm and how I could fit it.
Thirdly I'd been using the 4 ohm speaker posts on my amp as the Era Gold sounder more relaxing on those posts. I've now adjusted VTA, used the 8 ohm posts and voila. The bass is amazing, tuneful and deep(in comparison to the Era gold) and propulsive,the smoothness is superb, and the treble is crisp and delicate.
It has PRAT in spades, is dynamic whilst being relaxing if that makes sense.Strings are smooth, and mellow, and guitar has good pitch and tone without being ear splitting.
I've just listened to Lively Up Yourself from the album Natty Dread by Bob Marley and the Wailers and the rhythm section was mesmerizing. It sounded good one the Era Gold anyway but the Paul Hynes took it to another level. Sometimes with the Era gold I would anticipate loud crescendos with baited breath as I knew they would be some level of strain.I am not knocking the Era Gold because it's three times cheaper and it is good for the price but to my ears the PHD is a lot better than 3 times the cost.
I think this man, Paul Hynes,deserves a lot of credit for his product,which he was originally designing for an audio company, but decided to sell it himself when they wanted to use cheaper components in the power supply.I haven't got the greatest experience in terms of using or listening to different phono pre amps, so hopefully one day someone on here,with more experience,will give his product a try and give a more subjective review. He offers a 56 day money back guarantee, answered my endless and often idiotic emails,and can build the pre amp to your own specifications i.e. upgraded resistors etc,balanced connections.I should imagine it would cost a lot more if bought from a bigger company, but I'm no expert,far from it,so can't be sure,
anyway all the best,
Mick.
