best phono-stage for 1200$ max.

You may want to consider the Hagerman also, for a lot less than $1200. In kit form (if you're handy) or prebuilt. Very good, as long as you don't also need a step-up transformer for a low output MC. Then you'll need to figure in that extra cost also.

Enjoy,
Bob

Graham Slee ERA V Gold is $1000 and depending on your other equipment and tastes is a great phono pre-amp.

ss would be the Lancelot Camelot & Charm psu, which beleive it or not will not shine without a decent power cord.
tube would be the Quicksilver stage & step up if you need it.
I love this stage. Shades the stage in my Supratek and most anything I've heard up to about 4x it's price.

does your pre or integrated have a phono board? many pre-pre's are not as good as the one already onboard

You might consider trying the Ray Samuels Audio HR-2: http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0603/midmonth/emmelinexr2.htm