I second Jandj on the phono card. I'm using it with the VK-30 also and it's really great. Using a Grado Reference Platinum with really nice results. Another idea is a BAT VK-P5 which I've seen here on Audiogon for less than $1k. But for the money the BAT card is a steal AND a convenient 1 box solution.
BAT phono card
Can anyone comment on sound of BAT phono card. Just bought a VK3i. line only and would like to listen to my old vinyl occassionally. For $500, would I do better with a used outboard phono stage like Black Cube? Any comments or suggestions helpful. Love the line stage, BTW.