What cartridge works for you ???

The Shelter 501 would be an excellent choice for sound quality. It retails at $800, but you may be able to find a dealer to discount it a little for you.

I think a tube phono unit is an excellent choice, particularly at the front end, because they are softer on the overload margins, and this results in better performance during clicks and pops. Also, it keeps the grain out, at least until it reaches the your SS preamp.

I recommend a Benz Glider MC also - However, what ever cartridge you decide to use DO NOT overlook inquiry into the issue of whether or not it matches your arm. You will need to talk to someone with expert knowledge of the details of your arm, the cartridge you want to use, and the formulae for determining whether or not they will match. The best cartridge and arm in the world won't work well unless properly matched. If you are using a Rega arm for example, just ask Rega or their dealer. By the way, I think the Benz will match.

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned the Rega Super Elys or Exact. If you're looking for a sure thing go for a Rega cartridge with that Rega table. They're very easy to mount, and don't require much in the way of adjusting. They also just lowered the price.

Having said that, I just noticed a New Lyra Lydian Beta for $650.00. That might me the one to go for in your price range. I've heard it on a LP12 and it was incredible. The best analog I've ever heard. Of course that could have been the $8000 worth of LP12 it was attached to.
Here is the link to the Lyra:

http://cgi.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cl.pl?anlgcart&1051421318

-Patrick

Hi. Grab a Dynavector DV20X-H (High Output) or X-L (Low output) MC cratridge for $400-$500 and your search will be over. No one who has heard a Dynavector in their system (unless there's a gross mis-match with their phono stage) has ever not wanted to keep it. They just make music. I am not a dealer. E-mail me if you want to discuss this privately,
Ed

Kontra B's can be had 500$ street, and I know of nothing better at that price, or a Benz Ruby 2 if you want to stretch can be had a street price of a kilo buck.

Despite other comments my opinion is the Glider is overpriced.

jeff