• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Moving up from TCC-750?

D

drec

Member
Hi all,

I've scratched and put a modest system in place with my TT as the centrepiece:

Properly set up Ariston RD11E with Rega RB250 with a custom metal stub on the end (although I'm tempted to change the armtube), with Discovery wire and Dynavector 10x5 cart

TCC-750 pre-amp with phono

Kenwood L-07M monoblocs that run very well

Boston Acoustics A400s-- awesome soundstage, not as detailed as some other speakers, but soundstage, soundstage!!!


I'll be frank: I'm cool with the TCC-750, as it's small, cute and fits snugly in with the monoblocs and TT on top of the stand. But I'm curious as to the next step up-- how would that next step sound? I think I have good ears, being a musician, but at the same time wouldn't be able to justify more than $500 for a phono amp. Of course, the cheaper, always the better!

With that in mind,

(a) are there any vintage SS amps that you would recommend specifically for their awesome phono stage? And I mean, have you compared them with other vintage amps' phono stages?

(b) what would you be looking at in terms of new stuff? I read about the Lehmann Black Cube, but instead of $500US, it's apparently going for $800US which is way out of my budget.

Thanks!
 
Register to hide this ad
Way Better: TCC TC-750 Phono Preamp: Improved Edition with Better Specs ... The
TC-780LC provides up to 20dB of gain on any line level source, ... those of the
TC-750, but this model adds the ability to connect moving coil cartridges
 
So are you saying that you would add the TC-780LC to the TC-750? The 780 doesn't look like it has phono inputs...
 
Maybe he means the TCC-760 as it handles both MC and MM cartridges.

A lot of threads on here on this one, by the way, and you should find several recommendations for ones in your price range.

Richard
 
Since you're running the Dynavector 10X5, why not check out the Dynavector phono preamp? There are 3 of them on Audiogon right now, used but very likely in excellent shape, that are well within your price range.
 
The first real step up from the TCC750 (I currently own TCC754,TCC753, and TCC450's) is the Cambridge Audio 640P @ $179.99 probably the best value and sound under $500.00.
 
Its been mentioned a few times here that an upgrade to the power supply for the TCC-750 is a worthwhile investment. A pwr supply with 12v and more amps (2 or higher if I remember right).
 
I have also heard of the benefit of upgrading the power supply on TC-750. I'm not sure if they have changed the wall-wart p/s recently but I bought a TC-750LC and have been quited pleased with its performance. It is quiet with no hum and compares about equally with the on board phono input on my Onkyo receiver. (I'm running two turntables).

Another preamp option, especially if you are a do-it-yourselfer, is the Hagerman Bugle. It is highly regarded here.:yes:
 
To respond to your question. I currently own the Phonopreamps.com Models mentioned along with a Project Phono Boxbox II USB , The Bellari VP129, the Cambridge 640P also the built-in phono preamps in the McIntosh MA2275, Audio Research SP9MKIII, SP7 and SP3A1. In the past I have owned the NAD PP1 & PP2 and have auditioned the Clearaudio Nano (also quite good but on the bright side) and the Rega Phono Mini. I also have upgraded the power supplies on the TCC753's and (now here is a bold statement!)think that the best value of all is the lowly Phonopreamps.com TCC 450 "when used on Battery power" there is nothing like a pure DC low impedence power supply (ie a battery) to help the sound of any amplifier. The Cambridge has also been written up well in many magazines (primarily in the UK) if that's important and offers a lot of flexibility and excellent sound for the price. After $500 you can do better starting with the Dynavector and EAR products then the sky is the limit. Hope this clarifies my listening preferences.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom