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$400 For Integrated Amp or Amp + Phono Stage

1975 Views 3 Replies 3 Participants Last post by dmw16, Feb 11, 2010

dmw16

Discussion Starter · Feb 10, 2010

I have decided to take my first step into the world of vinyl and want to put together a little setup in my den (~12'x12'). So far I have purchased a Rega P1 turntable and a set of ELT525 Mini Monitors which I got a great deal on.

Now I need to take care of the phono-stage/amp part of the puzzle and I must admit I am more than a little confused. I have search and read threads, but came away feeling more confused than before I started.

If I have understood what I read correctly I have two options; either an amp with an integrated phono stage or a separate amp and phono stage. I haven't definitively figured out the advantage of one over the other; I am guessing that with separate components I have more control over my upgrade path?

Anyway, to cut to the chase, I have about a $400 budget to purchase either a phono stage (pre amp?) and amp or an integrated amp w/ a phono stage. I don't have an issue buying used, but I'd like to avoid vintage stuff if for no other reason than I feel like I don't know enough.

I have looked at the Marantz PM5003 and it is currently the front-runner. I have also gotten a lot of suggestions of the NAD C315/325/326BEE or the Cambridge 640A, but from what I could gather, none of those have a phono input.

I have posted similar threads last week so I am sorry if this seems a bit redundant, but I am hoping this will help me narrow my search enough to where I can really get going.

Thanks.

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Selden Ball

· #2 · Feb 10, 2010

One advantage of a separate phono-stage is that you can locate the turntable and its adjacent phono-preamp a significant distance from the amp. Phono signals are very low level and easily distorted by long cable runs.

You'll probably still need an integrated amp, though. Most phono-preamps and stand-alone amps do not include any volume or tone controls.

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phantom52

· #3 · Feb 10, 2010

A little over budget but a good one to give a look into.

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo...umber=MAPM5003

Also may want to look at accessories4less for refurbed Marantz and Onkyo's. Always some good buys from there. They also come with warranties.

http://www.accessories4less.com/make...eceiver/1.html

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dmw16

Discussion Starter · #4 · Feb 11, 2010

Thanks for the suggestions. I've seen the Marantz PM5003 and was considering it. I found one new for $400 w/ free shipping so I think I may go that way.

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