Best Phono Preamp under $1000

Thank you for your responses. I purchased the Audio Research PH3 and it indeed sounds wonderful.

I recently purchased a Lehmann Audio "Black Cube" to use with a new digital preamp. I am extremely pleased with it and think the retail price of $700 is fair. If you buy a new model, be sure it is the "Improved" version, which has a non-magnetic metal enclosure. If money is tight, there are used Black Cubes selling for $400-500. At that price, they are a steal!

Hi guys... I have an ARC SP9 and interested in purcaesing the PH3. I would like to keep the SP 9 (for economic reasons and I only listen to records). Someone told me that I could hook up the PH3 directly to the 9....it that possible?? Hoow is it done??