$2k is probably overkill when looking at the rest of your system. I'm not trying to "knock" what you have, just keeping things balanced.
You can get a heck of a lot of preamp for $1000 to $1500. Make sure it has a phono pre built in. Other things you need to consider are remote control and digital inputs.
Although old school, the Pioneers are legendary. I think that if you split the budget between a pre and a power amp you might get more bang for your budget. If you are not using the Carver for multi channel, sell it and add that to your budget. I'm not sure on the sound of the Mirage.
FYI: I'm not a fan of Carver, sorry but that does sway my opinion. I would prefer 36 tube watts over 360 bridged Carver watts.
You can get a heck of a lot of preamp for $1000 to $1500. Make sure it has a phono pre built in. Other things you need to consider are remote control and digital inputs.
Although old school, the Pioneers are legendary. I think that if you split the budget between a pre and a power amp you might get more bang for your budget. If you are not using the Carver for multi channel, sell it and add that to your budget. I'm not sure on the sound of the Mirage.
FYI: I'm not a fan of Carver, sorry but that does sway my opinion. I would prefer 36 tube watts over 360 bridged Carver watts.