help me pick a phono preamp.

You should consider Grado phono pre-amp since you are using Grado cartridge already. Otherwise Audio Research PH3 and Dynavector P75 would be a good choice but Dynavector is harder to find. Good listening.

others will answer your question about input load, but i would highly recommend the dynavector p-75. i use mine with a scout, first with a benz glider l2, now with benz ref 2 silver. with a low output cart, it has a special "enhanced" setting that essentially takes load setting by you out of the mix. incredible sound, and it's gotten rave reviews(check out hi-fi+ review from last issue). $599 new.

I agree with S. In that range, the Dynavector is very tough to beat.