MM phono preamp upgrade for $1000?


I have a VPI Prime 3D with a Nagaoka mp 300 MM cartridge. I’m currently using a Lounge Audio LCR mk III preamp that doesn’t sound bad but I’m hoping to upgrade. My LCR is an early version so Lounge Audio tells me they can’t do the silver/gold upgrades on it. I have a budget of about $1000. What MM only preamps would you recommend I look into at that price point new or used.

emiliop

Lots of good choices presented here. Here's another...........If you don't mind lurking into the used market $1000 can buy a pretty decent unit in a lot of brands. You may want to check out Graham Slee (Reflex line). If you find one that interests you, make sure it comes with their dedicated power supply. I believe they call it something like PSU1.

 

If you want to save some money and still get a decent phono preamp try the Parasound Zphono XRM Phono Preamplifier they go for around $500.00 new

I remember those JLTI’s from a few years back. I was really interested in them but never got a chance to try one. I’m really interested to hear your feedback if you get it. I’ve heard the Musical Surroundings stages numerous times and like them quite a bit. 

JLTI should be here Wednesday. Got a good enough deal on it that I should be able to sell without loosing money if it doesn’t work out.