Need p-stage for Sota/Audioquest/audiotechnica


I just got a new (to me)sota star with and audioquest pt6 arm. The seller recommended an audio-technica oc9 cartridge, which after doing a little research seems like it might be a good, first MC cartridge. Unfortunately the phono-stage in my pre-amp won't support an MC cartridge.

Trying not to get hit in the head with a Calphalon pan, I need to keep this p-stage relatively affordable. I was looking at the Project Tube Box, the Jolida JD9 and a few others in that price range.

Any preferences or other suggestions? Thanks!
grimace
Grimace, stick with your shure for now. Consider an external phono stage that will take both mm and mc. That should help. Then consider a new cartridge? Honestly, borrow my Cambridge 640 for a couple of days and see how much that helps. I think it is the best "budget" phono pre.
You might also want to look at the Parasound Zphono. Very good entry level pre amp that will accomadate both MM and MC carts.
The Dynavector P 75 turns up used here fairly regularly, in the $350-$425 range. The performance is staggeringly good for the money, and it will give you low-output MC through MM flexibility.