[kingpin]

Hello,

This is my first post here.  I'm an avid record collector, but I'm pretty new to the world of quality hi-fi.  I'm hoping some folks on here might have some useful input for me.

I am currently building a new system and I am very intrigued by the Signature 30.2.  One thing I haven't found too much info on is what phono preamps are known to mate well with this amp.  I listen almost exclusively to vinyl so I figure I could go with either:

a) the 30.2 power amp and pair it with a preamp with a good built in phono stage,
or
b) go with the integrated 30.2 and purchase a stand alone phono preamp.

Ideally I'd like to keep the phono pre to something below $1000.  If I went for the power amp version of the 30.2 I could direct those savings towards the full preamp and could spend up to $1400.

The source will be a VPI Scout with likely a Dynavector 20X cartridge.  I haven't settled on any speakers yet.

Any opinions on option a) vs. b) and suggestions on preamps would be very appreciated.


Thanks!

[Vinnie R.]

Hi Kingpin,

Welcome to Audiocircle and the RWA forum!

Ideally I'd like to keep the phono pre to something below $1000.

I recommend this one in your price range:
http://store.acousticsounds.com/browse_detail.cfm?Title_ID=35533

Like the Signature 30.2, this is battery powered.  With the Sutherland + 30.2 integrated, you'll be off-the-grid and in vinyl bliss! 

Vinnie

PS: I am currently using a dynavector 20XL cartridge and it does sound good indeed with the Sutherland..

[kingpin]

Hi Vinnie,

Thanks for the input.  Now if only I could find a battery-powered turntable I'd be set! (I dont think my daughter's Fisher Price would cut it.  )

Do you have plans to make a phono preamp?

[Vinnie R.]

Do you have plans to make a phono preamp?

Yes - but we're looking at a late 2008 / early 2009 release date - and the price will most likely exceed your budget.

Now if only I could find a battery-powered turntable I'd be set!

I'm using Scheu Analog's Premiere mkII table, which has an outboard 12Vdc motor.  Less expesive (and also very nice!) is the Scheu Cello, which also uses a 12Vdc motor.  All you need is a 12V SLA battery and you're all set! 

Vinnie

[Vinnie R.]

Do you have plans to make a phono preamp?

Yes - but we're looking at a late 2008 / early 2009 release date - and the price will most likely exceed your budget.

Now if only I could find a battery-powered turntable I'd be set!

I'm using Scheu Analog's Premiere mkII table, which has an outboard 12Vdc motor.  Less expesive (and also very nice!) is the Scheu Cello, which also uses a 12Vdc motor.  All you need is a 12V SLA battery and you're all set! 

I dont think my daughter's Fisher Price would cut it.

I'm sure there is a small cult following for that Fisher Price table... I heard it is a "sleeper" 

-Vinnie