Final Analog Upgrades

In the chain of products it stands to reason the phono stage should be maximized, the system being dependent on the signal being fed. Personally have an Allnic H7000; As to comparison with others noted above I could not say. What I have noticed is used H7000s usually last about 2-3 days on HIFi Shark. Not cheap but personally feel, in my system it provides a balanced, non fatiguing, honest presentation.

Given your budget the Allnic 1202 may hit the sweet spot.

Thanks for the info.  I talked to Kristen at Modwright about their phono stage but it's too far over my budget.  I'll take a look at your other suggestions and see what I can find.

I'm using a Hana ML cartridge with a Sutherland TZ Vibe phono stage. It's in your price range.  Sound is excellent.  I haven't heard the SL. I think it would be worth the money to go to the ML if you can swing it.  That's just based on reviews. 

I have a soundsmith phono stage that I am very happy with in your price range.

I bought the Hana SL last night.  Elusive Disc is having a sale and takes trades, so I pulled the trigger.  They recommended the Sutherland KC Vibe phono stage.  My gripe with it is the gain and load switches are buried inside the case.  I'd rather have them accessible.  I've read a number of reviews on  both the SL and ML.  More than a few stated that while the ML was better, it wasn't good enough to justify the extra cost.    .