Rotel phono stage?

[seteven100]

Hi folks,

I have a Rotel preamp with the model number: rc-972.

It has installed a Rotel phono preamp.

Just wondering what you guys thought of the sound quality of it and whether or not i should buy a dedicated phono preamp like the Rega Fono Mini A2D one that looks nice and has good reviews.

So would I benefit much with this rega phnono stage much?

Thanks!

[madmac]

I would honestly stick to the Rotel pre-amp. I don't think there would be any audible benefit from a external dedicated one.

[wkhanna]

Rotel phono-pre's in their 2-ch pre-amps have a reputation for being above average.
The question is, how much better do you need?
What turntable & cartridge are you using?
Any other info on you system will also help.

If you were to add an outboard phono-pre in the $150 - $250 range, I am not sure if you would realize much improvement or not.
This question is V system dependent, so with out a bit more information it is difficult to answer.

You could try something like the CA 551P or the Bellari, both of which have garnered V good reviews, providing you find someone with a reasonable return policy in the event your ears tell you the difference is negligible.

If it were me, I would consider having the entire RC-972 refurbished & modified.
This way you get across the board improvement regardless of input & you avoid having to get another set of good quality cables to run to separate phono-pre box. JMMH YMMV

[seteven100]

Hey

I have a Pro-Ject debut carbon TT with a Ortofon OM10 cart

A Rotel RB-1080.

A Sony Blu-ray player.

A pair of Tannoy Sensys 2 speakers.

I would not spend more than $200 on a dedicated phono pre.

Thanks!

[wkhanna]

That is a V nice system! :T
I doubt you would find much if any performance increase at the $200 range.
All your components appear to be V well matched with no obvious weak-link or over-performer in the bunch.

My advice,......... spend any extra $ on music! :W

[seteven100]

Ok man, thanks!

[wkhanna]

On second thought, if you do not already have one, maybe one of these... Spin Clean

[miner]

A reviewer once stated that a Rotel RC-1070 preamp was worth the cost for the internal phono pre alone (MM only).