Price Paid:  $300.00 from Audiogon

Summary:
I had been using a PS Audio IV phono section with my Rega P3 turntable for a couple of years with no problems when I decided to upgrade my cartridge from a Benz Micro Gold (2.5mv) to a Clearaudio Beta S (4.5mv). The higher output was too much for the PS Audio amp and I started to look for a replacement. Being a fan of Aragon equipment, I started checking the used market for a 47K. This unit does everything that a good mid-priced phono stage should. The 3 levels of gain allow for a much better match for cartridges than units such as the PS Audio. The soundstage and detail in records is much improved. Build quality is typical Aragon - military grade components, machined aluminum face, etc. Overall, a very good unit that will bring out the detail in vinyl that will make you wonder why you ever went to CD's.

Strengths:
Build quality. Ability to match gain and bias to any cartridge. Soundstage and detail.

Weaknesses:
None so far.

Similar Products Used:
PS Audio IV

Price Paid:  $600.00 from Digital Ear

Summary:
I bought the Aragon 47-K phono pre-amp to match the price of a Rega Planar 3 turntable. Other related audio products are the Grado Sonata Cart. going though an Audio Research LS-16 pre-amp via Aragon 8008BB amp to Martin Logan SL-3's. The Aragon 47-K was back ordered for over 2-1/2 months and I had a hard time getting information fron Mondial. Even the Rega Planar 3 turntable was back ordered from England and it beat the Aragon 47K in shipping information and delivery. Once I got the unit, I was rather impressed with the simple design and non funtions. Once the whole system was pluged up, I heard a slight hum at high volume levels. I tested the pre-amp and amp, and everything was fine. The problem may be the turntable or phono pre-amp, therefore I took both back to Digital Ear and they pluged them up with Krell pre-amps and amp, it sounded beatuiful. Some people write that the Grado Sonata cart. hums with certain set-ups, or it maybe the old wiring within my house, but I don't play music that loud, therefore I am rather pleased. With certian LP's, like for example "Tommy James - Crimison and Clover" the highs kill my ears. I wish there was a hi/low cut, but I guess at the $600 level for a phono pre-amp, all the design went into direct current. If I would of done it over again, I would buy the Audio Research PH3 phono pre-amp for its tubed warmness and because Audio Research is a higher grade audio company than Mondial. I ran into some werid "It's NOT Possible" philosophy with one of the designers at Mondial over their Acurus ACT3 pre-amp and the concept of "NOT" makes me wonder if Mondial can SEE certain things.

Strengths:
DC power

Weaknesses:
No Hi/Low Cuts, No tubes