So I have a Michell Gorbe SE (Gyro SE with Orb platter) with basic Rega tonearm (Audio Origin upgraded) and Audio Technica AT-OC9XSH cartridge.
I’m currently using a Primare R32 phono stage into my NAC282 with Supercap Non-DR (well the Supercap is coming Monday) on to NAP250 but was considering changing to a Naim phonostage.
Obviously the Superline is significantly better, but would I miss a lot if I got a Stageline at this point? (I have a not-really-a-Hicap to power it).
Thanks
Eloise
I don’t know the Primare phonostage but both Superline and Stageline are very good. Both can be powered by the 282, if you can find a Superline go for it.
Stageline or Superline powered from Aux2 belonging to a preamp (itself powered with a SC-DR) is going to be good.
On the basis that a rising tide floats all boats, I would get used the sound of the your new SC-DR on your NAC282 first. Then I would try a borrowed Stageline S on Aux2 against the Primare R32. The latter I don’t know at all but I do have a Stageline S for my AT-OC9.
Hope that helps.
C.
Either Naim Phono stage is very good and for the money the Stageline is the best value for return on investment. A Superline will be better than the Stageline providing everything else is up to it specifically in your case the arm and cartridge.
In your current setup I suggest a Stageline is a good match but by all means go for a Superline if you can get a deal on one. At some point though with either I would upgrade your arm.
Remember too although you may be powering the phono stage from the 282 it in turn is powered by a Supercap in your case so the phono stage will benefit from this too.
Whatever you get if you can listen to both and let your ears decide.
I wouldn’t bother swapping out the Primare for a Stageline - sideways step ay best.
What input impedance do you find works best with your cartridge.
I think I’d go with Robinho’s comment - I started with a Gyrodec/Rega that I modified with springs/feet etc (not Orbe platter) and upgraded a Graham Sale phono for a Superline (also Supercap powered via aux socket. The Superine is very good but for me the biggest improvement was upgrading the arm so I’d suggest exploring that unless you are unhappy with the Primare.
Eloise, you are in a good position with a pleasant issue to resolve. I would like to add one word: Balance. We are all limited by funds and you may wish to consider focusing on source first. If the Superline is a screaming deal AND you will be upgrading arm and cartridge in short order, go for it. If not, you may wish maximize your investment towards the front end for now. Your Supercap powers the Naim phono stages, and that is a great benefit. You will be in a great spot regardless of your decision.