[Scottdazzle]

I need some advice from anyone who can speak knowledgeably about phono preamps.  I am looking for a phono preamp (under $1k) to go with a Modwright SWP 9.0 SE linestage.  I currently have a Music Reference RM-5.  I have heard good things about the Pro-ject tube SE, Graham-Slee, Jolida JD-9, and Lehman black cube but I've never heard any of them.  Any advice?

Scott

[2gumby2]

I most highly recommend Bel Canto. It completely transformed my vinyl system from mediocre to outstanding. I started buying LPs again because of it. Bel Canto really knows how to do a phono preamp right and it has a lot of versatility too when matching with different cartridges.

[royphil345]

Like I said in the other thread, I'm truly happy with the Jolida and Sovtek 12AX7LPS. No regrets or urge to upgrade at all after owning it for some time. Sound is as open, spacious, dynamic and "musical" as anything I've heard for the price. It can sound a bit "bright", "thin" or "aggressive" with the wrong tubes in it and I was really unsure if it was going to be a keeper for awhile, but it's everything I hoped it would be now. It seems both accurate and "comfortable" to listen to. 12AX7s with gain on the lowish side and flat frequency response seem to work best. If you're planning on going low-output moving coil, it would probably be the best choice out of what you listed simply due to the loading options available. Having a few capacitance choices can really help get the best out of any cartridge as well. Although, if you're really willing to spend up to $1000.00, I'm sure there's better out there and I have little experience in that price-range.

[pt109]

What cartridge are you using?

[Scottdazzle]

I'm using a Denon DL-160 high output MC.

[pt109]

The Black Cube Statement is an easy choice. Really musical with MM's (or HOMC). Or if you don't mind used
equipment, try to listen to a EAR 834P.

[Scottdazzle]

I don't mind used equipment at all. About half of my system was new and half used. A friend has an EAR I may get to try. There seem to be a lot of phono pre's on Agon which is why I'm trying to get better informed before I plunk down some cash.  I also have a Music Reference RM-5 which I could use as phono only, but that seems like a waste.

[dmckean]

I don't mind used equipment at all. About half of my system was new and half used. A friend has an EAR I may get to try. There seem to be a lot of phono pre's on Agon which is why I'm trying to get better informed before I plunk down some cash.  I also have a Music Reference RM-5 which I could use as phono only, but that seems like a waste.

The phono stage in that music reference pre-amp is probably better than anything you're going to buy for under $1000.