Final Analog Upgrades

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. 

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.

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.

You wouldn’t include Allnic, Atmasphere, Manley, Modwright, Luxman, Quicksilver, etc?

I would look into used:

Conrad Johnson

Audio Research

VAC

Zesto

I have upgraded my phono stages since the late 1970’s. Each time I found the phonostage holding back the sound of my tt / cartridge (Yes, this is dependent on exactly what tt / cartridge you have). It was not until I reached the Audio Research SP8 that I felt this was no longer the case.

So, my recommendation is to find a very high quality tube phono stage, and of the highest level you can afford with the brands above. Stretch you budget if you can. Your Soto is a very capable turntable and cartridges are easily upgraded. So, a really good phono stage is worth the investment.