Which phono preamps modify to top notch?


For those that can't afford the zandens dartzeels and audionote phono stages, which phono stage can be had for less and then modified to approach the top players? Preferably tubed and balanced but not exclusive to this.
pedrillo
Ayre P-5xe phono stage. Only so so as stock. When my friend got done modifying it the sound was completely transformed. Huge soundstage with incredible micro and macro dynamics.
I find the current used price/performance ratio of the Aesthetix Rhea outstanding. Great air, well balanced sound, excellent low level detail and sound staging, blah, blah, blah with the audio jargon... it makes really believable music . There is the option available to upgrade to a Signature version as well. This unit to my humble ears was worth every penny at its retail pricing and to see them for less than half of that, I find just plain crazy. And yes it is dual mono, fully balanced architecture beyond the phono input.

Happy (analogue) Listening!