I thought the Glider was a good choice.
An attractive alternative, I think, is to consider a good step-up transformer like a Bent Audio TX103 for about $800. This will allow you to access the lower output MC cartridges and will yield you better sound overall, due to this.
I know getting a step-up tranny breaks the budget you stated, because there's no money left for the cartridge. However, you can get a really good low output MC like a Denon DL103R for about $235 that will be at least a match for any Glider and, in my opinion, will be better. Or you could later on get into a Shelter 501 for about $800, and really have the ticket.
Just some thoughts about various options.
An attractive alternative, I think, is to consider a good step-up transformer like a Bent Audio TX103 for about $800. This will allow you to access the lower output MC cartridges and will yield you better sound overall, due to this.
I know getting a step-up tranny breaks the budget you stated, because there's no money left for the cartridge. However, you can get a really good low output MC like a Denon DL103R for about $235 that will be at least a match for any Glider and, in my opinion, will be better. Or you could later on get into a Shelter 501 for about $800, and really have the ticket.
Just some thoughts about various options.