Phono preamp

[rjinaz86323]

I currently am looking at a new turntable; Clearaudio Concept with a MM cartridge. My current preamp is what is inside my MX-130. If I want to go to a better preamp how much am I going to have to spend. Don't get me wrong I am happy with what I have for a preamp, but there is always something better out there, just not sure if I can afford better.

[Formerly YB-2]

Recently purchased a QHW Vinyl from Spain based on Michael Fremer's recommendation and am very pleased. Really does a good job with my Ortofon OM40 MM cartridge as well as my various MCs. One of design features that made it work for me is I can connect my Dual 701 MM TT and my Denon DP-80 MC TT and go from one to the other with the flip of a switch.

[FreddieFerric]

The MP100 gives you the dual TT capability, both MM and MC loading, along with the ability to digitize your LP into those dreaded and weird 0's and 1's.

[Vintage Pete]

Originally Posted by FreddieFerric

The MP100 gives you the dual TT capability, both MM and MC loading, along with the ability to digitize your LP into those dreaded and weird 0's and 1's.

I really like my MP100. The dual TT capability is nice, though I do not have room for a second table in that system. I have no interest in digitizing vinyl, and I keep the digital circuitry disabled on mine. It's nice that McIntosh allows you to disable the digital circuits if you are strictly a vinyl aficionado.

The MP100 sounds fabulous with my Ortofon Cadenza Black.

[miner]

The current phono stage I am using is the PS Audio Stellar phono stage. For the money spent it is seriously good, and extremely quiet. Plus, PS Audio has a trade in program to help with the final cost. The settings are very versatile plus also has a custom settings for MC cartridges. Allows connection for two turntables. This bettered the phono stage on my C2300, which is very good.

[Puma Cat]

I'm a really big fan of the Zesto Andros phonostage. Haven't heard better.

[njcardave]

I’ve read great reviews on the Parasound JC 3+. Do your homework.

[Wpjs]

Why no mention of the MP1100?
I have heard it in a system last year and it was incredible

[miner]

^ I would enjoy a MP1000 except fir the cost of ownership. That level of phono stage deserves a $20K analog rig plus $5000 cartridge. I have never heard that level of audio analog equipment.

[j3brow]

Originally Posted by miner

^ I would enjoy a MP1000 except fir the cost of ownership. That level of phono stage deserves a $20K analog rig plus $5000 cartridge. I have never heard that level of audio analog equipment.

Yes you have. The C1100 phono stage is sonically every bit as good as the MP1100. The MP1100 only adds more bells and whistles. I’ve been told this directly by two high ranking long term McIntosh employees. It’s only reason I didn’t buy a MP1100. Ultimately, I bought Moon 610LP with 820S power supply after a month long in home demo, couldn’t be without them once I heard them, analog magic with my MT10. That said, the C1100 phono is excellent and served me well for 4 years before i moved to Moon.