Looking for a multi curve EQ phono preamp

[Rust]

Over the years I've acquired a number of 78s. A plethora of labels. I have a very inexpensive 78 phono preamp which is sort of OK but could be better. Especially since I would like to archive some of it.

The only two multi curve phono preamps I'm aware of are the Slee Revelation and KAB EQS M12. I'm aware of the Rek-O-Kut Re-equalizer but wonder at stacking an extra component. Comments? Suggestions? Experiences?

[david k]

I have a couple of archivists for clients and one of them is using the Wavestream Kinetics phono pre. I don't have any experience with it but he's very happy with it.

http://www.theaudioarchive.com/TAA_Products_Wavestream_Kinetics.htm

david

[MylesBAstor]

David's suggestion of Scott Frankland's unit is excellent.

But I think Rust is thinking a little less money?

One suggestion:

http://www.musicdirect.com/p-161016-ifi-micro-iphono-mmmc-phono-preamp.aspx?utm_source=googlepepla&utm_medium=adwords&id=122504282721&gclid=CI620MCyhcsCFYIfHwodkwsK8w

A little more expensive alternative:

http://www.stereophile.com/content/sentec-eq11-phono-preamplifier#1UBeY9Mstue8KYMm.97

Or slightly more:

http://hagerman-audio-labs.myshopify.com/collections/phono-preamps/products/violin-mm-mc-vacuum-tube-phono-preamp

[Rust]

Thank you for you replies gentlemen. Myles is exactly correct, cost is very much a consideration. Right now the ifi is looking like the winner. Both units I mentioned have more EQ curves but approach my entire yearly budget. Granted I've been known to go higher but only when nothing else would do.

[lasercd]

There is a pro audio piece made by Millenia called the LOC-i. It was designed for the Library Of Congress for archival purposes. Its exactly what you are looking for although I suspect more than you want to spend. I auditioned it for 2 months and almost bought it as a replacement for my ASR Basis Exclusiv.

[astrotoy]

I used the GS Revelation for some time. Needs a step up (GS makes a unit called Elevator) for lower output cartridges (like most MC's). Not enough flexibility for my non RIAA curves. I tried out several including Scott Frankland's preamp, and ended up having Bottlehead build me a custom unit with multiple bass, treble and turnover frequencies, so I could have ultimate flexibility, along with the sound qualities I like the best. Not cheap, however. I did like the GS Revelation for its sound quality, so if that fits your needs and budget, I would recommend it.

Larry

[Guest]

The Audio Reseach Ref 2 Phono, Ref2se Phono, Ref Phono 3, and Ref 10 Phono offer push button EQ with curves for Decca, Columbia and RIAA. Excellent products. not hard to find the 2 and 2se used.

[Rust]

Larry - I searched around and found the KAB EQS M12 which has 12 equalization curves but have found no statements regarding the performance of the unit anywhere. At $1600 it's a ways above what I'd be willing to spend with no recommendations available.

Tima - The Audio Research units would be nice, but I'm looking for multiple curves for a variety of 78s. Iy would be nice if I could just rent something to archive things.

[Beaur]

Here's an option if you would consider something non standard, but even at the cheaper end it may be above your target. Would also introduce some complexity into your playback chain, but it is perfect for archiving.

http://www.channld.com/seta/

[MikeCh]

Hi Rust,

Did you already make a decision on which adjustable phono preamp to purchase?

I've got the Sentec EQ-11 running in my system along with the Auditorium A23 SPU SUT for the two carts currently in rotation here, Ortofon Cadenza Bronze and Miyajima Zero mono. The Sentec EQ-11 houses 1950's Swedish Military NOS 5751 Sylvania Triple Mica Black Plate & CBS 7318 tubes rather than the stock ones and really sounds great with both cartridges.

I'm not listening to 78's (though I have several large boxes of them that I've never listened to) but do have a large collection of 1950's-1960's mono records and wanted to hear how the various eq curves in a phono preamp would change the sound over straight RIAA. Having the ability to dial in the right curve for Columbia, Decca, Capitol, etc. is a fantastic feature and makes a world of difference for these older pressings IMO.

[Analog21]

Mike, I was looking at getting a Miyajima Zero. how do you like it? How does it work with the Auditorium A23 SUT? How much did the SUT cost? trying to figure out my mono rig in the coming months. Thanks again, David

[Rust]

Mike - Thanks for the input. No decision has been made yet as I am what you might call very sensitive to price. Versatility is as important as performance which is as important as price. Right now the Graham Slee seems to be the leading candidate even though it uses op amps which to some seems an anathema.

[Beaur]

Well if you are considering a SS one you may want to look at this one. I don't own it but I have heard it and it sounds pretty good. It's also very flexible and comes with a chart listing the setting for most popular curves.

http://oswaldsmillaudio.com/monophonic

[Rust]

It's even (barely) what I can afford. Never thought of checking Oswald Mills since the stuff they make is usually well above my price range. One more in the consideration list.

[Beaur]

If you aren't limiting to new you could look on EBay for older units like the McIntosh C4 and C8 or the Scott 121C etc. some might be playable most will need work.

[MikeCh]

Mike - Thanks for the input. No decision has been made yet as I am what you might call very sensitive to price. Versatility is as important as performance which is as important as price. Right now the Graham Slee seems to be the leading candidate even though it uses op amps which to some seems an anathema.

There are a couple of Graham Slee units on Agon now for what appears to be good pricing. Both the Revelation C and Revelation M being offered.