I Need Some Opinions...

My phono preamp’s MC setting has 60db gain and it’s MM setting has 40db gain.
It also has jumpers for setting impedance and load resistance. In its era, the Phono Box SE II got some very favorable reviews in its price point (only $500}.

If it helps with pertinent information, here is a link to my system:

https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/7425

To throw in a twist, I think a VPI Prime Scout might be a huge upgrade in tables. Thinking I could pull that trigger and retire my current table. I would also likely need to upgrade my phono preamp. Opinions on this idea would also be appreciated.

I have lots of things to consider and, thanks to. Covid 19, lots of time to consider them while working from home.

Thanks to all

" think a VPI Prime Scout might be a huge upgrade in tables. Thinking I could pull that trigger and retire my current table."

You'll get plenty of suggestions on what to get. If you chose the VPI Scout, look at this
https://upscaleaudio.com/products/vpi-super-prime-scout

You will also get plenty of "expert" advice why not to consider VPI.

"I would also likely need to upgrade my phono preamp."
https://upscaleaudio.com/products/manley-labs-chinook?_pos=1&_sid=9ccf0f075&_ss=r
The suggested Lyra Delos will now be served.

Get a nice tube amp, your DONE!

For cartridges, MM ones such as Clearaudio Virtuoso (lightly used), Cartridge Man Music maker III (lightly used) would be near the top sound wise for around $500-550.  I'd second the Hana SL, or Denon 103R for LOMC if your phono preamp has enough gain.  If you're patient, you can land a very good MC for around $700 used.  I've been able to buy a couple $2700-3000 cartridges for under $750 lightly used.  I'd agree that your analog setup is not going to extract the best from such an expensive cartridge.  I personally loved the Virtuoso in my system and I had a good overall system.  I'd still be tempted to try one again and my system is now really good.

If you wanted to upgrade your phono pre, the Allnic H-1200 is out of production but still a good sounding phono pre.  Should be able to get used for about $750-850.  It would be a significant upgrade to what you have.  You already have a good integrated, but if you wanted an excellent sounding preamp WITH an even better phono section built in, the Audible Illusions 2C or 2D would be great.  I had a 2D that kept me happy for about 17 years until I upgraded to an Audible Illusions 3A w/ John Curl MC phono section.  Absolutely hard to beat or even equal in its price range.  The 2D is about $700-800 used and the 3A w/ MM phono is about $1000-1100 used.  These pieces last a long time and the sound is way better than the price.  The AI stuff is one of the all time best buys in stereo equipment.

Bob 

Bob, thanks for the reply.  I’ve gotten a lot of advice which I need to ponder.  I guess I need to determine what I truly want from my analog system.  Do I tweek what I have, change cartridges or start over from scratch and go big lol.  I have a lot to think about.  I appreciate all the input and am learning a lot.

dorkwad has it right about the Audible Illusions equipment. The only reason for parting with the Modulus 3A was the lack of a remote control. Great equipment at a great price.