Darlington Labs MP8

I just wanted to drop this in today. This phono preamp is incredible. I purchased it based on several personal recommendations and from AI and at the price point it fit. I expected it would sound good. I did t really expect how good it sounds. The stage, the dynamics, the air it’s all there and (to me) runs neck and neck with some of the others I tried as loaners from my stereo shops (rega / line magnet ) but for half the price.

For discussion point I’m running:

Denon DP3000 (modern) with a Denon 103r

Bob sky strip sky 40 running in 1:20

This goes into an onkyo rz50 aux port running in pure audio mode (yes I know this isn’t ideal, the next change will be pulling my analog chain away from my digital home theater system)

Revival audio Atlante 5 speakers.

Darlington mp8 set at 37db (because 35 sounded flat).

I still may jump the non to some controlled 1:40 testing but I’m sure it’s way too much gain.

Highly recommend the Darlington.