I have a CAT SL1 III with phono for sale, but it's special, since I had the factory simplify its signal path, cutting out the Balance, Tape Monitor and one Input switches. It handles one line level source and phono, and has a lot less solder joints and switch contacts in the signal path than other CAT's. Its phono stage is acknowledged as superb. I'm a passive preamp fan these days, but my CAT has elements of glorious tube sound that I'll miss. Nicetom@sonic.net if you're interested, price negotiable within reason.
New (used) pre-amp with phono
I'm afraid its time to upgrade my old PV-5 which I've had since '85. I'm a vinyl lover but also like CD's so I need both. I've read the reviews and it seems like a used CAT (mark 3?) may be the way to go (would like to keep it around $2500 to $3000). I also have an old electro pre pre-amp (EC-2?). Can I still use this with a line stage? Don't want to get caught up in the tube vs SS debate but I have dynamic speakers now (Nestorovic) and will probably have in the future. I used all tubes (Pre-amp and amp) with the Nesteys and it sounded too mellow for my liking. Any pre-amp suggestions?