Best tube phono stage under $500?

Brad · « **on:** 10 Oct 2003, 05:37 pm »

Any other models to add to this list?

Hagerman Cornet (DIY)
Bottlehead Seduction (DIY)
Ys Audio Concerto ($450-500 new)
AES PH-1 ($599 new - may be avail used)

I like the Wright and the Decware, too, but they fall above my self-established budget. I love the DIY idea, but find myself woefully short of time.

michael w · « **Reply #1 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 01:41 am »

EAR 834P (used).

cheerio

Brad · « **Reply #2 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 01:55 am »

Thanks!

I've heard that the EAR model without the volume control sounds better.

Also found the McCormack Micro phono drive used.
and the nOrh phono stage (but absolutely no specs available on it)

Until I decide, I found an ART Audio Deejay phono stage for cheap to use with the Panny '25.

michael w · « **Reply #3 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 04:55 am »

Yes, the one without volume control sounds better but I haven't seen one at the $500 mark yet.

Hey the McC is SS !

If you are going to change the rules take a look at the Plinius Jarrah and Monolithic phonos.

Brad · « **Reply #4 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 10:59 am »

Both McCormack's I saw listed on 'gon were under the tube section. Didn't know it was SS - no rules changing here - definitely want tubes

michael w · « **Reply #5 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 11:56 am »

The McCormack is definitely SS.

http://www.avhifi.com/asp/product.asp?product=103

Why the insistence on toobz ?

Might as well ask what cartridge you plan on using while I'm here.

cheers

Brad · « **Reply #6 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 02:26 pm »

Just feel like tubes are a better match with vinyl (no REAL reason).
Cart for now is a Goldring (stock with MMF5), but will be a Dynavector 10x5.

JoshK · « **Reply #7 on:** 14 Oct 2003, 03:02 pm »

One thing a long audiophile/vinyl lover once told me about tube phono stages is that they are not all created equally. It apparently is very easy to inject noise into the system this way so very careful and well designed circuits are needed.

Rocket · « **Reply #8 on:** 15 Oct 2003, 10:14 am »

hi brad,

i'm collecting a new perreaux phonostage tomorrow and in a few days will post my impressions of it.

that being said i have been told that the plinius phonostage is excellent for the price. i would look at the plinius but i'm getting a very good deal on the perreaux and want to use the extra $$$ on a new turntable.

i wouldn't limit myself to just tubes for a phonostage.

regards

rocket

DARTH AUDIO · « **Reply #9 on:** 28 Oct 2003, 10:09 pm »

Spend the extra money for the EAR 834P.. It's worth it. Read August? Stereophile..