I too have tried numerous phono preamps and had a variety of experiences that didn't line up with the reviews and opinions of others or the price of the product. If it wasn't a gain or hum problem, it was the type of sound coming from the unit. Ended up building 3 of my own before I was satisfied (and broke).
Thanks for the responses. Ixnay, how did you arrive at what or how to build your own? I'm too old to learn this stuff but my son is very interested. I see people talking about building Nelson Pass kits? Or are they just plans to follow? I have reset the load impedance to 47k on the Forte. Will post after I give it another listen.
Kits, plans and help have been around as long as tube radios back in the 20'S. And fortunately for us (your son) there is still plenty of it going on at places like this site. In fact, I am now building one of my favorite units from a kit offered here. The 'Iron Pre'. Some of the guys here produce just works of art making the chassis and all. Take a peek at the DIY store itself to get just an idea, but also realize that there is a whole world to discover out there. Anything from draiwngs to complete kits, it's all good. Here is my 'Moskee' Preamp made in honor of my mother.
