Newbie phono stage question

[Rob_n]

Hi I'm new to this website (although not new to vinyl) My system is as follows:- Michell Gyro SE QC power supply with Origin Live Encounter arm on air isolation platform Ortofon MC30 Supreme and Rohmann (retipped by Van Den Hul) carts XLP2 and Trichord delphini mk2 phono stages (previously had an XLP and EAR 834P) I really like the smooth sound of the XLP2 whereas the delphini is more accurate but not as warm.I have been thinking of getting a new phono stage,any thoughts? I'd like a relatively smooth warm sound.

[Mikke]

Try to get your hands on an Audio Research PH 3 or(if finances permit) a PH 3 SE The former works for me.

[Paul_G._Nagy]

::) Hi, Rob_n, Issue of a suitable phono stage is not just about the source components you already have but also the rest of the system AND the target system. So, if you are satisfied with your setup anyway, you should consider a neutral sounding phono stage which has been well suited to your cartridge. Ortofons of this league are balanced sounding but rather uninvolving yet clinically sterile, and definitely not being in the same performance group as your TT and arm combination. This situation needs and addressed solution that either makes your choice easier and leads far further in musical enjoyment than a simple phono stage upgrade. The Encounter is brilliant, well suited to medium compliance MC's such as the Benz Micro Reference or Ruby2, cartridges having their own - and generally superb - MC phono stage called Lukaschek PP1. They have been designed for each other to realize their full potential. Try these combinations - I am sure you'll be satisfied with your nearest Benz dealer - and you are going to realize a great musicality upgrade. If this may not be a symphatic solution, there is a phono stage from Manley Labs of very high reputation.Check. Regards: Paul

[clubsport911]

I've got a (highly modified) X-LP and my simple mods transformed it. If you want to get rid of your X-LP-S , I'll take it.

alternatively, save £ £'s:-

1) Buy another X-LPS
2) Buy the PSU
3) Open up the X-LPS
4) Re-wire all the wires you can see with decent stuff.
5) re-configure the earths
6) Junk the silly power lead from PSU to XLP and put something substantial instead
7) re-wire the PSU

Voila - cheap as chips and lots of fun !

Steve