Phono pre for DMC-30SS

**dan31** · 09-22-2011, 03:10 PM

I'm currently using the ayre p5xe with my DMC-30SS and have recently installed a Lyra Kleos. I'm really enjoying vinyl. For some time I have thought that my phono stage was a potential for better performance. I'm beginning to look into upgrading the phono stage early next year. On the short list would be: Einstein, naim superline, ARC PH8, Artemis PL1. I'm open to other ideas. I would prefer a single ended design as the balanced input is taken by my digital source. Can anyone comment on pairing phono stages with the Spectral pre? The DMC30 has a input impedance spec of 15k ohms. The Arc ph8 states a lower limit of 10k ohms. Are tube phono stages a bad idea with the Spectral preamp? Has anyone heard the Tempo electric phono stage? I have my fingers crossed that Spectral may introduce their own phono stage when I'm ready to upgrade.

Thanks

**ack** · 09-22-2011, 03:14 PM

I also use the P5xe in my Spectral system and am waiting for a Spectral phono...

**Pete Roth** · 10-01-2011, 04:45 PM

Ack: Do you have any insider knowledge regarding the timing of such a Spectral phono? Given Reference Recording's foray back into the world of vinyl, I was wondering if such a move was in the near future cards. On a related note, received the Quality Pressing's reissue of Getz/Gilberto and listened this morning -- glorious! - Pete -

**ack** · 10-01-2011, 09:07 PM

Sorry, no info... if I hear something I'll be sure to post

**mullard88** · 10-02-2011, 01:06 AM

Hi dan31,

Regarding your query on pairing a tube phono stage wtih a Spectral line stage, I have used a Lamm LP2 deluxe phono stage with the DMC 30 SS on several occassions and I have never heard or detected any technical problems nor have the sonics of this combination ever been amusical.

As for pairing phono stages with Spectral line stages, aside from the Lamm, I had good experiences with SAC, Spectral DMC 20 series 1, Spectral DMC 20 series 2, and the Crosby modified Spectral DMC 10.