Looking 4 a high quality phono line stage $5k-$8k

If willing to accept tubes and buying used (to stay in your price range):

Aesthetix Io Signature (add the optional volume controls with the single high level input and your back to one integrated device)

Atma-Sphere MP-1 (a full function preamp with an excellent phono stage)

Manley Steelhead (single ended)


For purchase new within your price range:

Aesthetix Rhea

Herron VTPH-2 (single ended only)

I'm curious about your criteria for balanced input from the cartridge (if I read you correctly). The Atma-Sphere preamps are one of the few I know to use a true balanced input. I believe the BAT VK P10SE may have balanced input, as well. The Aesthetix has a DIN connector input, but it converts in first gain stage to balanced and then is fully balanced from the second gain stage on.
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Correction: I was mistaken about the Aesthetix Io connector. The Aesthetix Io has both XLR and RCA jacks for the phono inputs (no DIN). But the first gain stage assumes a single ended input (whether XLR or RCA) and converts the signal to balanced at that stage. The Rhea has RCA inputs only and similarly converts to balanced at the first gain stage.

Thanks for your clarification, Mmike84, and good luck with your search.