Need preamp recommendation

riffwraith,

Turntables can use different kinds of cartridges.  One of them is “Moving Coil”. They put out less power and need a different pre-preamp.

Hope that helps.

JD

VTL 2.5 on USAM would enhance your system for under a grand.  Save up for other upgrades!  Like speakers...

patrickdowns4 and others of LTA/ Linear Tube Audio praise are absolutely correct. I bought a LTA MicroZotl pre; gave it a shot, played with the tube configuration and decided it beats or as good as my $13,000 Conrad Johnson GAT pre. MicroZotl comes with a built in Headphone amp as well as being an amazing pre with a super volume control; remote is easy to learn in my opinion; its an Apple Remote. Try one out for free for 30 days; call them.
https://www.lineartubeaudio.com/tradein-demo-bstock/microzotl-preamplifier-b-stock-case
https://www.lineartubeaudio.com/
301-448-1534

I'd look at Modwright's offerings.

I bought a McIntosh mx110z Tube Tuner/Preamp

I’ve never been happier (I’m 72), terrific tuner, wonderful pre-amp and two MM Phono inputs. I now have TT with two tonearms, that turned out to be a great feature.

Happens to be two for sale here,

this one of the best ones I have ever seen (I don’t know the member, it just came up on hifishark)

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa3e8j-mcintosh-mx-110-tube?refsource=hifishark

this one also very nice, 
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9hcbb-mcintosh-mx-110-tube

the glass face can be replaced, or re-painted, it's just black paint on the back, I broke/replaced mine $45. Seller online sells new glass already painted around $90.

review
https://positive-feedback.com/Issue77/vintage_mcintosh_experience.htm

not many have the wood case as both these do.