What happens when you replace four IC op amps with Sparkos Labs' integrated op amps in a 2017 phono stage that cost under $600? Watch to find out!
Background: I recently upgraded my 2017 Vision Phono stage from Audio By Van Alstine, replacing the four IC op amps with discrete op amps from Sparkos Labs. In addition to providing a "how's it sound," some information about the phono stage and product offerings from Sparkos Labs, this video contrasts my 2017 sound system with what I have today. Component manufacturers are listed below.
Sparkos Labs integrated op amps (they have several other offerings that might interest you).
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Audio by Van Alstine - 2017 Vision phono stage. They recently released an upgraded phono stage, the Vision Q+. Frank Van Alstine and his people hand craft an extensive line of audiophile grade products at reasonable prices.
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Thorens TD 124/II turntable - Lovingly restored by Jaap Pees at Hanze Hif in the Netherlands. This was a second revision that took the turntable to a whole new level from what I was able to achieve on my own.
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AudioSilente - Simone Luccetti crafts replacement Thorens components, as well as other products I’m using. He provided the idler wheel and most likely the sintered bronze bushings Jaap Pees used to rebuild the motor. He also crafts several products out of high density graphite. I am using one of his platter mats (he provides them in varying thicknesses), his record weight and his azimuth adjustable headshell. Simone does not run an online shop. If you see something you like, you have to contact him to arrange purchase.
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ZU Audio Omen IIs- Sean Casey and his crew hand craft an amazing array of speakers. I am running the “dirty weekend” edition.
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Decware 341.5 Dual Triode Amp (a.k.a the "Rachael") - Steve Deckert and his fine folk create tube amps, preamps, phono stages, speakers and other products. I had Steve outfit the amp with multiple inputs and gain pots, so it could be used without a dedicated preamp.
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Woodsong Audio - Chris Harben hand crafted the cocobolo veneer plinth for the TD 124/II. He also offers an amazing, high precision rebuild of the Thorens main bearing. I don’t know of anyone else who does it the way he does. Highly recommended for anyone running a TD 124.
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Phasemation - Makers of a fine line of phono cartridges, phono stages, SUTs and other goodies. I am running the PP-500 MC cartridge.
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No promotional consideration, no discounts, no freebies, no nothing. In fact, only Andrew Sparks was informed I was going to make this video and he didn’t know until after I’d purchased and came to love his discrete op amps. Seriously, if you are running any audio equipment that has IC op amps that can be swapped without soldering, I highly recommend you look at what he's got to offer. - jwn
