Best phono preamp? Want world class the best

Buy a s/h Pass Xono. plenty of variable gain so will give you the choice of LOMC, unlimited loading choices and it sounds very very nice.

You may want to try to try and audition the new Artemis phono stage. This phono stage has a very lifelike sound and can compete with some of the best.

There are several options for you here, both tubed and solid state. I have just gone through a review of several phono stages for my system and learned a lot from the experience. I have recently settled in with a Hagerman Trumpet tubed phono stage which is at $2k, but you'll also need a step-up transformer for it so that will add another $300 or so. Well worth it in my opinion and Hagerman offers a 30 day trial. Another option is Decware which makes some nice phono stages for the money. Their top unit is around $1500 and is also tubed. Decware offers a 30 day trial period as well. I also tested out a Whest phono stage which is a solid state design and does a remarkable job in reproducing the music. These are going used for under $2k.

One other option you might want to consider is upgrading you EAR. Mitch Singerman in LA is legendary for his EAR upgrades and this would be your most cost effective option. If you like the EAR, but want it to sound better in your system then you should contact Mitch and discuss your options with him. One thing for sure, you are not doing your phono stage justice comparing it to a $7k unit, especially when your budget doesn't allow you to upgrade to that level.

So much depends on what you listen to(acoutic or electric) and what you listen for. I tend towards tubes and C-J's Premier 15 just did not quite cut it with an MC cartridge with your grado it probably would be more than fine. Just a thought. BTW I wound up with a Thor which is above your price but nothing else worked for me

Pedrillo,

Where'd you hear the Martinson? I have heard that it's supposed to be very good.

Evan