It's a little over your budget, but worth the stretch. Kevin Carter is selling a beta "Venice" on eBay for $8K. Fully differential, tube hybrid; makes the K&K "Maxed Out" sound like a toy in comparison. You can read a review of the Sonas Veritas "Venice" by Marshall Nack here: ://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue59/sonus.htm
Phonostage
Need help. Purchased a cartridge,benz micro LPS, currently have a nova phonomena phonostage which I believe is my weak link. Would like to upgrade phonostage with tube or solid state with at least 62 db of gain. After a natural sound with lots of detail. Listen mostly to jazz to include female singers would like to have as much depth as possible. Budget is $5000 new or used. Suggestions please.