How Do I Choose A Phono Preamp

Single or multiple inputs

Accuracy of loading..ease secondary

Gain max 70-74

Voltage

Tube or SS...not sure. I intentionally purchased an integrated with tube preamp and SS power amplifier. I would prefer a neutral phono stage and maintain detail, especially midrange.

Also, prefer well isolated power supply and balanced outputs.

Listening to preamps pretty tricky since so many variables.

AR PH8 sounds appealing ..except no balanced outputs .. will require some patience to find one.

Under $5000.

At least for me, it is about sound quality. That is it

Agreed, but with limited funds, how is this done?

The only way that I can see is to buy and sell, but I can't afford this approach.  So, looking at features, reviews and recommendations seems to be what is left.  Also, the MC stage of my integrated is good, so looking for a product worth the upgrade.

Are you using the phono stage in the 12000?

It's MM/MC, adjustable and well reviewed.

Yes and it is easily adjustable.  I'm assuming that it is pretty tough putting a phono stage together with a 300 watt per channel power amplifier.

I thought best to report back with what I bought. I pretty much settled on the Modwright PH9.0x, but prior to purchasing I called my Music Direct salesperson that has been very helpful with other purchases. I asked him if he thought that money best be directed to subwoofers, or phono preamp. The preamp in my integrated is pretty good as is the bass in the Sabrina X. He convinced me that if I just changed one thing, the subwoofer was the way to go. I was considering a pair of REL G1 Mkii in a 14’x23’x10’ room. He suggested that I back off the price of the subwoofers and get a pair of REL S/812 and that would allow me to also get the Sutherland 20/20 ver2 with lps. I’ve read a lot of positive reviews of this unit without the linear power supply and he priced everything right, including three power cords and interconnects.

Everything shipped this morning. I’ll use my two months to make sure that I’m happy with the Sutherland and I’ll find a good chiropractor to help me after I carry the subwoofers upstairs.

I want to thank everyone that posted on this thread.

Great choice in the MW PH9

I didn't get the PH9x due to the high price.  The RELs, Sutherland preamp, power cords and interconnects were already pushing 10K and I didn't want to spend any more to upgrade subs, or the phono preamp.  It was a compromise.  Should the 20/20 Mk2 be a minimal improvement to my integrated phono section, then I'll revisit the Modwright.