I just reviewed this phono stage and I thought it was fantastic. Full review here.
https://hifiwigwam.com/forum/topic/1...e-phono-stage/
To sum up briefly, this has a great balance of qualities; tonal richness, dynamics, sense of space. It's not lacking in any area, and it's quiet too. It makes me wonder why there aren't more hybrid stages on the market. Audio Research makes them, but at a far higher price point, and with only 58dB of gain. This one has 64db, which is enough for the majority of MC carts, and a good range of loading settings. Another rarity is an accessible dial to change the loading. It's all very well thought out.
I just sent this back and frankly I was gutted to say goodbye. In the review I focused on its more refined qualities, but on my last evening with it I listened to 'Aladdin Sane'. Mick Ronson was all raw electricity and I was punching the air: I've never really heard the guts and fuzz of his guitar tone so clearly. But the clarity isn't just about seeing detail; it serves the visceral qualities of the music. I'm not sure I can live without it.
Apologies that I've posted the same text on two different forums: I know there are Longdog fans here especially, but I think the word needs spreading elsewhere too.