The Shelter 501 would be an excellent choice for sound quality. It retails at $800, but you may be able to find a dealer to discount it a little for you.
I think a tube phono unit is an excellent choice, particularly at the front end, because they are softer on the overload margins, and this results in better performance during clicks and pops. Also, it keeps the grain out, at least until it reaches the your SS preamp.
I think a tube phono unit is an excellent choice, particularly at the front end, because they are softer on the overload margins, and this results in better performance during clicks and pops. Also, it keeps the grain out, at least until it reaches the your SS preamp.