Phonostage recommendations under $3K


Folks,

I am looking to step up from my current Parasound ZPhono XRM (still under 60 days audition trial). To be honest, I am quite pleased with its performance, feature set and flexibility. I mean what else you can expect from a $600 phono. While I enjoyed listening to vinyl through XRM, I feel there is room for improvement and XRM may be the weakest link in my vinyl setup. And since XRM is the only phono I’ve experienced in my setup, I don’t have quite have a reference point. So what else should I be considering under $3K?

I prefer a relaxed and slightly warm sound since I mostly listen to jazz genre.

I started to put together a list list based on sound quality and flexibility with gain and impedance settings.

Parasound JC 3+ Phono Pre
Allnic H-1202
Leben RS30 EQ (requires a SUT for MC Cart)

I hear high praises on Herron VTPH-2A but it’s bit more than I would like to spend at this time.

My current vinyl setup, Thorens TD1601, ZPhono XRM, Hana ML (low output - 0.4mv), Accuphase E-650 and Tannoy Canterbury’s.

I would really appreciate some recommendations based on your personal experiences. Thank you!
128x128lalitk
@mulveling
Or others

Since part of this thread has drifted to the $10k side, have other tried the venerable more recent versions of the Manley Steelhead ? 

@jayctoy,

Thanks for the heads up. I have been exploring this segment of the analog chain, so many high performers in my price range.

I was reading up on JE Audio HP10, appears to be a well built phonostage,

http://www.je-audio.com/product-details.php?id=12
Interesting read on this, I've been meaning to update my phono with tubes, but couldn't find an Aesthetix Io, but couldn't find the one I wanted (single power supply and no volume).  I just picked up the Herron that was being spoke of, so thanks for the heads up!

I will reply after I have the opportunity to evaluate the Herron
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