i know you wanted balanced but If you don't mind going single ended Tom Tutay can Build you a Tube Phono Preamp for less than your budget.
mds
mds
Valve phono stage
I’m considering switching to valves for my phono stage... can any of you guys recommend any with balanced outs for around $3800?
Current phono stage is Whest PS.30RDT.
I’m currently using a Roksan Xerxes 20Plus with Origin Live Encounter arm & upgraded Lyra Skala.
Or would I reap great rewards from an arm upgrade...?
Thanks