What happens when you install Sparkos Labs' integrated op amps in a sub $600 phono stage from 2017?

[@intoitreviews]

That turntable is gorgeous 😍

[@markhunstone2747]

The Sparkos labs discrete voltage regulators are excellent aswell! I have had a similar experience and it's sparkos all the way! 👍👍

[@bespey]

What device did you put the regulators in? Thinking about trying one in a linear power supply

[@HiFiMods]

I have a Schiit Mani 2 - $150 Phono stage and am looking into upgrading its' TI opamps to some Sparkos Labs ones, I will have to solder some DIP/IC adapters to be able to replace the stock opamps, but I can get those from Sparko's and am somewhat decent at soldering. Would be an interesting project at the beginning of the year.

[@PrismApplied]

Another Sparkos fan here. Great descriptive language.

[@vcp93]

Interesting video about a phono stage I am not familiar with. My system is kind off similar to yours in that I run a pair of the Zu Omen MKIIs rev-b with a Decware SE84UFO2.1 tube amp. I run a Pro-ject Tubebox DS2 which has a fair number of adjustable settings; super helpful with LOMC carts. However, I've been reading about the use of a step up transformer for those types of carts. Have you even used one in "your audiophile travels"? If so, any advice? Cheers!

[@OriM-S]

You are right about cost and parts quality. Frank uses decent parts but not the best and sometimes cuts corners too deep... In your phono preamp you can easily notice the most unwelcome cheap capacitors right in the center of the board. Since the EQ circuit relies heavily on the quality of these capacitors, it would be only smart to replace them with decent film-and-foil caps. The cost is low and the return on investment is very high. The only issue is that you need to solder parts and from your intro it doesn't sound like that's your forte, unfortunately. But it's never too late to learn!

[@jedi-mic]

You should look at the (classic audio) phono stage just got one really good MC pro 600 £ buy direct from the UK I wonder if the discrete op amps would be any good in that it doesn't need it I'm not sure don't think so?? There is quite a lot of room around the opamps so professional ones might fit what's the size of them?

[@arizonacatman1]

Looking inside the Classic Audio MM Pro, which may be the model you're referring to, it appears there is ample room to place Sparkos Labs discrete op amps in it, although you will need risers to clear some components. Andrew at Sparkos Labs was very helpful when I was considering the upgrade. He asked for photos of the board and any specs regarding voltage input. I imagine if you contact him, he'll do the same for you. sparkoslabs.com