Phono stage/cartridge for Linn LP12 and Audion Silver Nights

[Cilowen]

I am updating my neglected vinyl system and need some current advice if anyone has time.

The core of the system is a Linn LP12/Ittok ll and Audion Silver Night valve amplifiers.

I'd be very grateful if anyone could suggest from experience a good phono stage/cartridge combination to go with these. Budget around £3,500.

I am not in a position to audition or compare so either/or suggestions will be difficult to follow up.

Thank you in anticipation.

 

[stevebrock]

Are you nuts?

You want a rec for phono & cart for £3.5k and can't demo - insane.

Anyhow there are only a handful of people on hear who could offer help, doubt many have even heard of your monos albeit bet they sound good!

 

[stevebrock]

You will get a better response on HiFi WigWam - this site has gone to the dogs

 

[Cilowen]

Thank you for your reply, stevebrock. I appreciate your taking the time.

I don't think I'm nuts. It's just that some people cannot do what they'd prefer to do for any number of reasons.

 

[stevebrock]

ok then - Icon Audio PS1 and Transfiguration Axia

 

[Cilowen]

Thanks again, stevebrock. I couldn't have a more positive reply than that. I will investigate.

As I said, I really do appreciate your taking the time.

 

[stevebrock]

its really diffucult to reco cartridges becasue they all offer a different presentation - we dont know how you like your music or what presentation your TT gives you.

You wont go wrong with the PS1 phono or even better the PS3 - then do some research on different carts as they will all give you something different.

What is lacking from your current set up in terms of presentation?

 

[Cilowen]

I have not used the system for a long while. I was using an old Meridian 101B control as phono stage and pre-amp and an Audio Technica AT OC10 (rare). Now the time has come to allow the deck and amps to perform as intended but so much time has passed that I am completely out of touch with what's available.

So, I can't really say what's missing as I haven't listened seriously for so long but I did love the 'valve sound' when I acquired the Audions.

Thanks again for your interest. I hope I'm not going to get an invoice for your professional fees!