Suggestion for phono preamp in sub 2k price to complement Rega Planar 8 with Apheta 3 MC

@verdantaudio I’ve seen the Rogue Ares but don’t know much about it. I’ll do some research into those you mentioned. Thanks for the input.

@photomax, was considering the Aria but other units appeared more flexible? Not sure.

@bobedwards101 I’ll check out the AVA hadn’t come across that one.

@au_lait doesn’t look like they are distributed in the US. I forgot to mention my locale in the original post. The unit does look appealing though.

@jrw1971 Thanks for the comparison, I was originally looking at the Rega Aria to stay in the same family. I was then headed down the PS Audio path after reading goods reviews on it. The switching via remote while seated listening is compelling.

@jorgjean Thanks and the Aria was where I started my search, still might end up there due to lower cost on a used one.

@mammothguy54 I recently watch Kevin’s video in the MC SE. This gonna be a tough decision as I also have other recommendations to research. Thanks for your input.

@rsf507 Thanks for  your response. Another preamp I hadn’t heard of but will do some research on it. Appreciate the suggestion.

@wlutke Hadn’t heard of the the Herron, I’ll take a look, glad to hear its a good fit for the Rega. Thanks for the response.

@big_greg Thanks for mentioning removing the cover, shouldn’t be an issue since I don’t plan on swapping the cartridge out frequently.
Unfortunately just missed a good deal on a used Chinook! 

Thanks everyone for your suggestions, all great phono preamps I’m sure. To start with I just got a good deal on a Rega Aria so I will start with that as a reference. Then I’m gonna try the PS Audio on loan, and the Graham Slee on loaner to start my journey. 
Thanks again everyone. A’gon always a great source of advice!