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Your Nominations: Top Phono Stages under $1,000

Replacing a Pro-Ject Tube Box ll...New table and cart: VPI Scout 1.1 with Ortofon 2M Black. Can I make a significant improvement and spend less then $1K?
larseand
reubent
6,936 posts
 
@sunnyjim - I completely agree. That is a great price for the 110. I thought about purchasing one, several times, when it was on sale. Unfortunately, after being available at that price for several months, the price has gone back up to $695.
smrex13
645 posts
 
@yogiboy Yep, I second that recommendation!  The Croft is excellent.  

The iPhono2 is also a fantastic phono amp, but it really needs a linear power supply, which adds to the cost (but still keeps it under 1K).
tubegb's avatar
tubegb
187 posts
 
+1 for the Lounge Audio phono stage w/matching Copla step up amp or a previously enjoyed LFD LE phono stage.
czarivey
5,680 posts
 

AudioResearch PH3 is still a champion under 1k.

Not too user friendly, but adjustable by re-soldering resistors and same with capacitors. This tube/hybrid can kill big giants and sounds far better than all tube.

chayro
2,925 posts
 
I replaced the Tube Box II, which I liked, with a used Linn Linto. Far better, IMO. Absolutely not solid-state harsh, but more overall realism. And, no adjustments to screw around with. I have had the Linn for several years and have no desire to upgrade.  There is one up for sale on Ebay now, with a bid of $295 as of now.  I bet you could snag it for $600 or so.  
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