Phono Pre-Amp Suggestions

kharp1 · February 2018

When I started my research phase for vinyl I looked at a lot of different ways to approach it and I realized that something like the Vista was important for me due to the many levels of gain and resistance as well as filtering in and out. I had really wanted the Zen Decware Triode, but, that would have required a seperate SUT bringing the total price to around $1300. I wasn't prepared to pay that unless it really panned out. Figures I could always sell the Vista and go the triode route at a later date if it worked out.

There are several out there that have a wide range of settings, which I think is important if you even remotely think you may change carts, so, so your research.

maxward · February 2018

If the OP is still looking, another one to consider used is a Jolida JD-9 (original version). It has lots of gain/loading options and responds well to upgrades.

dr1978 · February 2018

Still looking and I'll take that under consideration. I'm having a hard time finding anything on the original version though.

maxward · February 2018

There is a review here: https://positive-feedback.com/Issue65/reader2.htm
Probably some others out there as well. I’m happy with mine. New issue Mullard tubes improved it. Good luck.

dr1978 · February 2018

Thanks!

vcwatkins · February 2018

I really like the Lounge LCR. New mkIII's go for $300ish I believe. Very good sound, great value, and if you want to explore beyond MM, you can pair later with the Lounge Copla SUT. There was a short, positive write-up of the Lounge in recent magazine. I'll look around to see if I can find it.

Here is a used MkII on eBay for $175 shipped.

Although I've never heard one, I'd also be tempted to build a Bugle shown in @mhardy6647's post above.

mpitogo · February 2018

So funny you are looking for a pre and this gent has a pre and looking for a TT. http://forum.polkaudio.com/discussion/180767/moar-turntable-talk#latest

I had a physical look at the project tube box today picking up a few albums, I didn’t realize it was adjustable. The dips are at the bottom.

Jaybeez · February 2018

I have the Lounge and love it.

kharp1 · February 2018

mpitogo wrote: »

So funny you are looking for a pre and this gent has a pre and looking for a TT. http://forum.polkaudio.com/discussion/180767/moar-turntable-talk#latest

I had a physical look at the project tube box today picking up a few albums, I didn’t realize it was adjustable. The dips are at the bottom.

Match making at it's finest. That's one of the things we do well here...and help you spend your money.

vcwatkins · February 2018

vcwatkins wrote: »

There was a short, positive write-up of the Lounge in recent magazine. I'll look around to see if I can find it.

Stereophile Feb 8, 2018
https://www.stereophile.com/content/gramophone-dreams-20-lounge-audio-mofi-ultradeck

mpitogo · February 2018

https://newrecordday.com/lounge-audio-mkiii-lcr-phono-preamplifier/

mpitogo · February 2018

How did I double post?... Just in dL-110 my first MC. Due to lack of MC pre start by trying out what a high output MC can do before getting SUT or MC pre before trying out a low output cart.

afterburnt · February 2018

https://www.themasterswitch.com/best-phono-preamps

dr1978 · February 2018

Thanks everything for all of your opinions and advice!

I ended up going with the Lounge LCR MKIII. Purchased it off a fellow Polkie at a very fair price. Can't wait to fire it up!

Clipdat · February 2018

Nice choice. IMO that level of preamp fits nicely alongside the high end TT and cartridge that you got.

Talk about a badass first vinyl setup, sweet!

dr1978 wrote: »

Thanks everything for all of your opinions and advice!

I ended up going with the Lounge LCR MKIII. Purchased it off a fellow Polkie at a very fair price. Can't wait to fire it up!

Phono Pre-Amp Suggestions

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