Preamp suggestions

[Kiadi]

Hi, everyone. I want to upgrade my system, which includes Debut Carbon DC OM10 , Denon PMA-520AE and QA3030i. However, since my budget is tight for a large-scale upgrade, I am thinking of replacing the Ortofon Om10 cartridge with the AT VM95SH. If I also buy an external phono preamp, will I see a difference compared to the internal phono preamp in the Denon? I have two external preamps in mind. Rega Fono MM MK5 and the Cambridge Audio Alva Solo as an external preamp. Which one can I get better performance from with the VM95SH?

 

[Al ears]

I would try it with the internal phono stage first.
Not sure why the Alva needs a balance control but cannot really comment as not heard it.

 

[Kiadi]

I would try it with the internal phono stage first.
Not sure why the Alva needs a balance control but cannot really comment as not heard it.

Do you think Denon 520ae’s photo stage is good as external preamps that i said? Wont be a significant difference?

 

[nopiano]

Hi, everyone. I want to upgrade my system, which includes Debut Carbon DC OM10 , Denon PMA-520AE and QA3030i. However, since my budget is tight for a large-scale upgrade, I am thinking of replacing the Ortofon Om10 cartridge with the AT VM95SH. If I also buy an external phono preamp, will I see a difference compared to the internal phono preamp in the Denon? I have two external preamps in mind. Rega Fono MM MK5 and the Cambridge Audio Alva Solo as an external preamp. Which one can I get better performance from with the VM95SH?

In the past I've owned two Rega Fono models, but that was because I had an amplifier with no phono stage. (That was a thing when CD dominated as turntables were nothing like so popular then as now.)

They are excellent, but I think it feels like a rather extravagant addition, as it probably costs more than the entire Denon amp did originally. I'd second Al's advice to try the new cartridge first, and maybe borrow a phono stage from your dealer to see if you feel there's a value in changing. Actually, you can get a Fono Mini which is less fancy, but sounds very similar for less money. I tucked mine out of sight.

I only know the Cambridge from reviews and Richer Sounds adverts, but I believe it's quite capable. Last thought; how about buying used, as these are reliable and easy to ship. I sold both my Regas on eBay quite readily.

 

[Fandango Andy]

Hi, everyone. I want to upgrade my system, which includes Debut Carbon DC OM10 , Denon PMA-520AE and QA3030i. However, since my budget is tight for a large-scale upgrade, I am thinking of replacing the Ortofon Om10 cartridge with the AT VM95SH. If I also buy an external phono preamp, will I see a difference compared to the internal phono preamp in the Denon? I have two external preamps in mind. Rega Fono MM MK5 and the Cambridge Audio Alva Solo as an external preamp. Which one can I get better performance from with the VM95SH?

I would start by considering what you want to achieve. In what way would do you want your system to sound better?

 

[Al ears]

Do you think Denon 520ae’s photo stage is good as external preamps that i said? Wont be a significant difference?

There will be a difference but perhaps not as significant as you want.
Try it with new cartridge first then try to borrow the phono preamp as a home demo and try that.

 

[jamesrfisher]

New cartridge will add more than the phono stage unless it's a very poor one. As others are suggesting, get a new cartridge first and use with the built in stage. Can then try and loan one from your dealer or direct (Graham Slee have a home loan programme).

 

[Kiadi]

I was going to buy a brand new AT-VM95SH for €270, but I found a used 2M Bronze for €180. The seller said it was a gift from a friend and he only used it to test about five LPs (he usually listens with an AT-OC9XSL). I didn’t want to miss the opportunity, so I bought it. If I don’t notice a major difference with the new cartridge, I’ll try borrowing a preamp.

 

[RoA]

Agree with trying the built-in phone stage first. I had a Rega P3 and was always happy with the included options in my amplifiers but would I try an external one it would probably be Fosi Audio's X5 unless you have an indecently expensive TT and cartridge.

 

[Kiadi]

Agree with trying the built-in phone stage first. I had a Rega P3 and was always happy with the included options in my amplifiers but would I try an external one it would probably be Fosi Audio's X5 unless you have an indecently expensive TT and cartridge.

I’ll probably upgrade my turntable or pre amp as well in a couple of months if I can. Do you have any recommendations for a new turntable that isn’t too expensive which is compatible with 2m bronze

 

[Al ears]

I’ll probably upgrade my turntable or pre amp as well in a couple of months if I can. Do you have any recommendations for a new turntable that isn’t too expensive which is compatible with 2m bronze

The 2M Bronze is compatible with most modern turntables.
What will you be replacing?
What is your budget?

 

[Kiadi]

Probably tt first my budget around 750 Euro

 

[Al ears]

Probably tt first my budget around 750 Euro

Sorry, I meant what turntable do you have at the moment?

 

[Kiadi]

Sorry, I meant what turntable do you have at the moment?

Ohh i have debut carbon dc

 

[Al ears]

Ohh i have debut carbon dc

Again, my mistake.
I should have read your first post more carefully...... 🙂
perhaps something further up the Project list might be a suitable replacement, not sure what is available to you for your budget though.

 

[Clarkey_71]

New cartridge will add more than the phono stage unless it's a very poor one. As others are suggesting, get a new cartridge first and use with the built in stage. Can then try and loan one from your dealer or direct (Graham Slee have a home loan programme).

X 2 for considering Graham Slee. Great products that punch well above their weight. Always worth a listen.

 

[nopiano]

I was going to buy a brand new AT-VM95SH for €270, but I found a used 2M Bronze for €180. The seller said it was a gift from a friend and he only used it to test about five LPs (he usually listens with an AT-OC9XSL). I didn’t want to miss the opportunity, so I bought it. If I don’t notice a major difference with the new cartridge, I’ll try borrowing a preamp.

Lucky escape, because the AT-VM95SH for that price is very costly. They’re on offer in UK for around £150 so you shouldn’t be spending more than, say, two hundred of your Euros.

The Bronze will repay careful setting up, so take your time! It shouldn’t be too tricky as it has captive nuts I believe. Good luck.