I’m currently using a Gold Note PH-10 phono stage (with PSU-10) with my Rega P10/Apheta 3. The Gold Note is a great piece of kit and I’m very satisfied with it. That said I can’t help but wonder whether a Rega Aura would be even better and how it compares to the Gold Note. I don’t think I can home demo it, but I could buy it and return it if not significantly better. However, before possibly taking this step I’m interested to hear if anyone has any personal experience with both of these phono stages. Amplification is a Moon 600i V2 integrated and speakers are Audiovector Trapeze Ri. Thanks in advance.
As the Aura is double the price and is made to work optimally with Rega carts, I would say the Aura should be better. And Rega is generally very honestly priced at each level.
The Gold Note may give however nicer tones and less forgiving with average recordings.
I doubt you will find someone here who compared both. More reviews on PH 10 vs Rega Aria.
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Thanks. My logic tells me the same and I also have a feeling (from my own experience with the Gold Note and reviews of the Aura) that the Aura may have a more “direct” sound signature.
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Next week i will get my Rega Naia and will run it with my existing Goldnote Ph/PSU 10, i also thaught about the Aura, but will stay with the Goldnote and will give it a try.
As you wrote the Aura has a more direct sound, Naim also and the Naia too, maybe too much i dont know, maybe the Goldnote should be a balancing factor.
Im using the Aura with my P10/Alpheta 3 and very happy with the result.
FYI : My previous was a Superline/Supercap …and very happy with the change (full Rega Now).
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To offer an alternative, I use an Esoteric E-02 with my P10 which has a Shelter Harmony MC installed and it is an absolute dream. Can’t imagine a cartridge it wouldn’t get the most out of.
Thanks for the suggestion, never had the pleasure of hearing it but it’s certainly well reviewed. Incidentally, does the Shelter Harmony fit on the Rega RB3000 arm without the need for a spacer?
Yep, no spacer used for me. VTA looks good but I only verified with my eyes and not a tool. Sounds great nonetheless. All three work really well together providing a very natural sound that seems to get out of the way and provide what’s on the groove without imposing it’s own character whilst still keeping things musical.
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