You may want to consider a Luxman E-250. It's at the low end of your budget but won't sound like it. Has a built in MC cartridge demagnetizer called the "articulator". Very even frequency response with dynamics and bass slam to boot. It's physical attractiveness doesn't hurt.
Phono Pre Advice
Hi,
I'm in the market for a new phono stage $2,500-$3,500 (or so)
VPI Classic 1, Ortofon Quintet Blue, JPS Labs cables
Current phono pre: Channel Islands PEQ-1 MKII/AC15 MKII power supply. Is is a little "lean" relatively low noise but lacking weight and dynamics
In contention are:
Modwright PH-9 + power supply
Goldnote PH10 + power supply
PS Audio Stellar Phono (when released in September) no option for external power supply
*also love the look of the Thorens tep 302! Anyone heard it?
Thank you for any and all thoughts on those listed or others not on my radar, lots of amazing experience here!!
Best,
-JP
I'm in the market for a new phono stage $2,500-$3,500 (or so)
VPI Classic 1, Ortofon Quintet Blue, JPS Labs cables
Current phono pre: Channel Islands PEQ-1 MKII/AC15 MKII power supply. Is is a little "lean" relatively low noise but lacking weight and dynamics
In contention are:
Modwright PH-9 + power supply
Goldnote PH10 + power supply
PS Audio Stellar Phono (when released in September) no option for external power supply
*also love the look of the Thorens tep 302! Anyone heard it?
Thank you for any and all thoughts on those listed or others not on my radar, lots of amazing experience here!!
Best,
-JP