Rega Fono??

Am trying a rega fono (phono stage) on my planar 3 (dynavector 10x5). My amp (rotel ra-04) has a phono stage but have been told that a separate phono stage will improve things...

Am getting very frustrated trying to see the difference. I keep thinking there is and then i don't. The main difference (i think) is that the sound is a little bit brighter / more forward perhaps.

Should there be much of a difference? I've read the argument and agree but maybe a £150 phono stage just doesn't do it.

Any opinions gratefully recieved

 

I've heard a few times the built in phono stages in Rotel amps are rather good, at the price level. You'll probably have to spend a little more to better it.

 

That's what i figure...i think i'm beating myself up trying to hear a little difference

 

what phono amp would you recommend? Or should i stick to the amp?

 

If you hear a difference, great you do not, you do not.

I would not loose sleep over it.

EAR 834P is what most people lust after. But I think you can pick up some bargins in ebay, Michelle, Tome Evans etc.

 

I also use a Rega T/T but the P3 with elys II and Rega fono amp.

It dose what I want it to do; it plays music!!!!

Do you want to hear the difference or enjoy the music, if you are thoroughly enjoying your music who cares if there is a very very small difference between the stages.

Play the discs and immerse you rself in the music.

 

Why automatically assume that a built in stage is inferior to one in an external box?

Rotel have been building amps for decades and know how to design a competent phono stage.

Enjoy it and stop worrying.

 

As rob says, and save a few quid as well by not buying any new kit.

 

That settles it - it's going back! Thnks for the honest feedback.. i shall spend the money on records!

 

Agreed. You will have to spend more to ouperform the Rotel. Dynavector makes a separate Phono Stage that will mate with your Cart. pretty well. Check it out.


rollo