Is the EAR Phonobox a good match for ZYX low-output cartridges?

[JaideepGiridhar]

I recently acquired a ZYX Bloom 3, my second MC cartridge (the other one being a Dynavector 10x5 low). The DV, which is rated at .5mV, pairs well with the Clearaudio Nano phono stage that I own. However, I get the sense the ZYX, at .24 mV, is stretching the Nano's capabilities. I'm considering a EAR Phonobox, with an input sensitivity of .22mV, as a second phono stage. Is this a good match? Are there other phono stages I can consider (at around the 2.5 lakh range)?

 

[arj]

All you need to look is what is the internal or Loading imp of the cart and if it matches. the Zyx needs 100 Ohms and Dynavector 10x5 low might need more than 350 Ohms.

Check whats the MC loading of the Phonobox ( the MM/MC version) . if it is 100 Ohms then you are ok.

 

[reignofchaos]

Zyx is 4 ohm internal impedance and works best with 220 ohm loading. The mc input of EAR isn't enough.

 

[JaideepGiridhar]

All you need to look is what is the internal or Loading imp of the cart and if it matches. the Zyx needs 100 Ohms and Dynavector 10x5 low might need more than 350 Ohms.

Check whats the MC loading of the Phonobox ( the MM/MC version) . if it is 100 Ohms then you are ok.

The Phonobox has a fixed load between 60 and 70 ohms (it doesn’t allow for variable loads) and I don’t want to add an SUT to my chain. I might have to get something else - is the Gold Note PH-10 worth considering?

 

[arj]

The Phonobox has a fixed load between 60 and 70 ohms (it doesn’t allow for variable loads) and I don’t want to add an SUT to my chain. I might have to get something else - is the Gold Note PH-10 worth considering?

people say Vertere and Aurora sound are good and have the option to adjust. Never heard them myself.

The Ear Phono is definitely better that goldnote is what I was told ( with the tele tubes) but that will need an SUT. from what i could make out it makes the sound analytical ( but again hearsay)

Best is to hear it yourself if it is possible. You definitely will not go wrong with the vertere. I have heard it and its really good. The aurorasound , i have heard soundclips from a user and it sounded very good as well.

 

[JaideepGiridhar]

I settled on the PS Audio Stellar.