I'm looking for a definitive upgrade from my pass Xono (original one, with full size PSU) and as usual with this hobby - the more I read, the less I'm able to make a choice.
There is nothing wrong with the Xono but sometimes, it feels like it's a bit too hard in terms of treble, no matter the setup or cables used, I've noticed it every time when upgrading the cartridge, starting with the 103R, through AT33PTGII and now onto the VdH Frog Gold.
I will be buying used and so far these have caught my eve:
- Accuphase C-47 (Accuphase is always quality, just not sure how good they're with phono stages?)
- Pass XP25/27
- ARC Ref 2/3 Phono
- Whest (Titan Pro, REF V?)
- Destroy the wallet and go all out on a used Gryphon Legato Legacy
I'd much prefer not to use a separate SUT and considering I'm using headphones (Stax X9000) it must be as quiet as possible, no hum or any other noise. Some folks also seem to recommend the ASR Basis Exclusive but it I'm not sure about it, looks like 95% oversized PSU with a simple op-amp stage.
There is nothing wrong with the Xono but sometimes, it feels like it's a bit too hard in terms of treble, no matter the setup or cables used, I've noticed it every time when upgrading the cartridge, starting with the 103R, through AT33PTGII and now onto the VdH Frog Gold.
I will be buying used and so far these have caught my eve:
- Accuphase C-47 (Accuphase is always quality, just not sure how good they're with phono stages?)
- Pass XP25/27
- ARC Ref 2/3 Phono
- Whest (Titan Pro, REF V?)
- Destroy the wallet and go all out on a used Gryphon Legato Legacy
I'd much prefer not to use a separate SUT and considering I'm using headphones (Stax X9000) it must be as quiet as possible, no hum or any other noise. Some folks also seem to recommend the ASR Basis Exclusive but it I'm not sure about it, looks like 95% oversized PSU with a simple op-amp stage.
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