Preamp with phono section

I doubt you are going to find an Ayre K-1 with a remote and the phono section for $2K, (typically, the base K-1 with phono and remote would go for around $3K), but you might be able to find an old K-3X with a phono section for that amount. (The K-3 is very similar to the K-1, but it only has two sets of balanced inputs and two sets of single ended inputs, (versus 3 and 3 for the K-1). And while it has two sets of outputs, it has one set of balanced outputs and one set of single ended outputs, and I don't think that you can use them at the same time.

The phono section is very good, (great at this price point!), but realize that Ayre believes, (as do I), that one should use balanced cables for cartridges, so the phono inputs are set for XLRs, not RCAs. This means either having your cables terminated with XLRs, (which I have done), or using XLR-RCA adapters, (as I used to do before I upgraded my tonearm). The phono section does allow you to adjust both the gain and the loading via changing resistors. (Doing this is relatively easy, as it does not require soldering, only the use of screwdrivers.)

Good Luck in your search!!!

If you can stretch it a little bit, you might be able to score a McIntosh C220. They are a bargain for what the sometimes go for on the used market. Good luck!

There was a K-3 recently on Agon for $2k so that sounds like a good option.
McIntosh C220 would be great but its a little more than a wanted to spend.
Any thoughts on the Parasound?
I am of course also happy to spend a lot less...more money for media then

my man theres a few Classe DR-6 pres on the Gon that's one of the best SS full fuctioning preamps there is. And the unit is built like a tank and sounds great..

Look into a used Rogue 99 Magnum with phono

Tried to google the DR-6 as it looks really promising and definitely budget friendly. I could not however find any reviews from the "main stream" press.
Any suggestions?

You should investigate the Bel Canto Pre2p. The unit is well reviewed and very user friendly. Worth a look.

Klyne SK-5A if you can find one. Very good phono section indeed. Has 2 analog outs in opposite phase. This is useful because it allows connecting channels in opposite phase to spread load on amplifier power supply--this improves dynamics. Also allows balanced connection.

Note the Classe DR6 does not have a remote. However, it is a great unit!!!!