Phonostage recommendations under $3K


Folks,

I am looking to step up from my current Parasound ZPhono XRM (still under 60 days audition trial). To be honest, I am quite pleased with its performance, feature set and flexibility. I mean what else you can expect from a $600 phono. While I enjoyed listening to vinyl through XRM, I feel there is room for improvement and XRM may be the weakest link in my vinyl setup. And since XRM is the only phono I’ve experienced in my setup, I don’t have quite have a reference point. So what else should I be considering under $3K?

I prefer a relaxed and slightly warm sound since I mostly listen to jazz genre.

I started to put together a list list based on sound quality and flexibility with gain and impedance settings.

Parasound JC 3+ Phono Pre
Allnic H-1202
Leben RS30 EQ (requires a SUT for MC Cart)

I hear high praises on Herron VTPH-2A but it’s bit more than I would like to spend at this time.

My current vinyl setup, Thorens TD1601, ZPhono XRM, Hana ML (low output - 0.4mv), Accuphase E-650 and Tannoy Canterbury’s.

I would really appreciate some recommendations based on your personal experiences. Thank you!
128x128lalitk
TRON Convergence - used to great effect by Jeff at High-water Sound in his recent system at RMAF, garnering much praise. Also available, I believe, directly from TRON in the UK
+1 on TRON Electric Convergence. Exceptional build and parts quality. MM-only and MC variants are available, and the Signature versions are within your budget.

I'm a TRON dealer so please take this recommendation with the appropriate amount of salt.

Cheers,
Colin

https://gestalt.audio
Check out the Tavish Design Adagio and you can roll tubes to get the degree of warmth you want. The only downside is that there is a 5-6 week wait for them, but occasionally, a used one will pop up for sale. : )
You should look for an Aesthetix Rhea (used) in your price range. 

At under $3K a great phono stage.

Also a +1 on the Luxman Phono.
Check out the Simaudio Moon 310LP with or without the power supply... very nice PS that will give you that warmth you are looking for.