For $500, the Parks Puffin is a no-brainer. Lots of flexibility and customization available and Shannon Parks continues to make improvements through firmware upgrades (like click removal!).
Yes, it's "digital", yes, it's not the most refined phono stage, but at it's price point I think it's hard to beat. It can handle any type of cartridge as far as gain goes.
Another option in that price range (used - if you can find one) is a Musical Surroundings Nova Phonomena. Lots of gain and loading options and the option to operate on battery power is nice.
Yes, it's "digital", yes, it's not the most refined phono stage, but at it's price point I think it's hard to beat. It can handle any type of cartridge as far as gain goes.
Another option in that price range (used - if you can find one) is a Musical Surroundings Nova Phonomena. Lots of gain and loading options and the option to operate on battery power is nice.