Looking for a new Pre-Amp under $100

[goldswimmerb]

I can go a small amount over if necessary.

I'm looking for a new phono preamp. My current setup is:
SMSL SA60
JBL loft 40
Pyle p400 preamp
U-Turn orbit with Ortofon 2m red

I'm pretty sure one of my limiting factors in my setub, besides possibly the speakers is the preamp. I recently upgraded my cartridge to the 2m red and feel like my preamp is holding me back a bit. So what are you guys suggestions for a better preamp under $100? Thanks!

 

[j-wes]

The NAD pp2 is right around your price range.

 

[GPJeff]

The ART pre-amps are pretty good in that range. They have two models I believe, one with and one without 16 bit USB outputs.

 

[gladiator335]

Did you consider a new preamplifier? I have Yamaha C-40 with MM/MC phono section which is about your price range.

 

[kmp14]

U-Turn has a new phono preamp (the Pluto) that won a low-priced preamp shootout on Analog Planet. I have one, like it.

 

[SSaxdude]

Before you upgrade your preamp, how did you set up the Ortofon? I ask because the Orbit doesn't have a dial on the counterweight. If that's not set up correctly (like with a scale), then that will hold your set up back.

 

[goldswimmerb]

Before you upgrade your preamp, how did you set up the Ortofon? I ask because the Orbit doesn't have a dial on the counterweight. If that's not set up correctly (like with a scale), then that will hold your set up back.

Using a Stevenson protractor and a digital stylus scale.

Its highly possible I did a poor job of aligning it as well so if you have a good guide for that as well that'd be helpful

 

[jmchrislip]

I have a NAD PP2 that I use from time to time. I upgraded the power supply. It's very good for the money. You will need something to control the volume as it has no gain control. I've heard nothing but good things about the ART PRE preamp. I'm sure there's a lot of members who have first hand experience with it. I also have and have used the 2M Red. It's a best buy for the money. I'm not familiar with the rest of your system so I really can't comment on what other components you might want to upgrade.

 

[SSaxdude]

Using a Stevenson protractor and a digital stylus scale.

Its highly possible I did a poor job of aligning it as well so if you have a good guide for that as well that'd be helpful

I remember seeing a simple guide explaining cartridge alignment over at r/vinyl on reddit. I don't remember the name.

Does the Orbit team recommend Stevenson? It's possible they have a simpler overhang they prefer.

 

[SSaxdude]

Using a Stevenson protractor and a digital stylus scale.

Its highly possible I did a poor job of aligning it as well so if you have a good guide for that as well that'd be helpful

I remember seeing a simple guide explaining cartridge alignment over at r/vinyl on reddit. I don't remember the name.

Does the Orbit team recommend Stevenson? It's possible they have a simpler overhang they prefer.

 

[SSaxdude]

Using a Stevenson protractor and a digital stylus scale.

Its highly possible I did a poor job of aligning it as well so if you have a good guide for that as well that'd be helpful

I remember seeing a simple guide explaining cartridge alignment over at r/vinyl on reddit. I don't remember the name.

Does the Orbit team recommend Stevenson? It's possible they have a simpler overhang they prefer.

 

[goldswimmerb]

I remember seeing a simple guide explaining cartridge alignment over at r/vinyl on reddit. I don't remember the name.

Does the Orbit team recommend Stevenson? It's possible they have a simpler overhang they prefer.

In the QA on reddit the U-Turn rep said that they recommended the Stevenson alignment for the table.

 

[goldswimmerb]

Also guys, how is the Little Bear v2.2 tube preamp?