I have tried the Devialet phono stage vs a Tom Evans groove. I knew that in theory a digital phone stage could be excellent, but part of me liked the idea of the phono equalisation for an analogue turntable being itself analogue. After a short listen I found I liked the Tom Evans, it was maybe a touch "warmer". However, after more extensive listening, it became clear that the Devialet phono stage offered more detail, it was more dynamic, vocals in particular were much better. The final conclusion was firmly in favour of the Devialet. There are good reasons for this too, a shorter signal path, doing equalisation digitally can be far more accurate and precise than electronically. It saves a lot of cash too! Now it is just possible that you might find a phono stage that you prefer, due to its specific sonic signature, but I doubt it would be truly better in all respects. Another point to note is RAM, where you can select equalisation curves to suit specific record labels. My early experiments with RAM have been extremely positive. In short, you would need to think long and hard before spending extra cash on an external phono stage, together with extensive auditioning to make sure you really wanted it.
Slightly off topic, when I was looking for a new TT last year I did audition the Xerexs, although not with a PUG arm. I liked it, it was a real detail monster. It didn't end up my first choice though, I preferred both the Pro-Ject Signature 10 and 12, and ended up buying the 12. In comparison, maybe the Xerxes is top for detail, but it was almost like the Xerexs was pulling the music apart vs the Pro-Ject putting the music together (not sure if that will make sense, but it does to me). I just really enjoyed the music on the Pro-Ject. Plus the Pro-Ject weighs a ton, and has a really rock solid bottom end, it can dig sub bass out of some tracks. Might be worth a look? One thing, this is my personal view, and it can well imagine others preferring the Xerexs or maybe the Rega P10. All are excellent, but actually quite different in character. As a last note, the Signature 10 with the Cadenza Black for £1000 offer is an absolute bargain in my view.
Slightly off topic, when I was looking for a new TT last year I did audition the Xerexs, although not with a PUG arm. I liked it, it was a real detail monster. It didn't end up my first choice though, I preferred both the Pro-Ject Signature 10 and 12, and ended up buying the 12. In comparison, maybe the Xerxes is top for detail, but it was almost like the Xerexs was pulling the music apart vs the Pro-Ject putting the music together (not sure if that will make sense, but it does to me). I just really enjoyed the music on the Pro-Ject. Plus the Pro-Ject weighs a ton, and has a really rock solid bottom end, it can dig sub bass out of some tracks. Might be worth a look? One thing, this is my personal view, and it can well imagine others preferring the Xerexs or maybe the Rega P10. All are excellent, but actually quite different in character. As a last note, the Signature 10 with the Cadenza Black for £1000 offer is an absolute bargain in my view.
