Over the past several years, I've either owned or done home
auditions on 6 or 7 phono preamps (paired with a Lyra Skala).
In my system, the two I have liked best are the Graham Slee
Reflex C, and the Parasound JC3 (which is above your budget if
bought new, but can be found used for $1500-1600). They have
somewhat different sonic profiles, but I think both represent
excellent value. BTW, Graham Slee offers a free 2-week
"loaner" program so you can try their products in
your system. For more details, check their web site. The good
news is that there are a number of good phono stages today
under $1500.
auditions on 6 or 7 phono preamps (paired with a Lyra Skala).
In my system, the two I have liked best are the Graham Slee
Reflex C, and the Parasound JC3 (which is above your budget if
bought new, but can be found used for $1500-1600). They have
somewhat different sonic profiles, but I think both represent
excellent value. BTW, Graham Slee offers a free 2-week
"loaner" program so you can try their products in
your system. For more details, check their web site. The good
news is that there are a number of good phono stages today
under $1500.