Cost efficient phono preamp recommendation

The Lancelot is based on the DACT module available in Europe if you hunt for 400USD, add a nice power supply and your there, for about 450 bucks, and with a good filter section in the power supply and a bit more heft, you can out do the Lancelot, the DACT is realy a nice unit.

Run the power supply at 20-50V and I like 32 V, and don't use a switching power supply unless you truely a filter wizard.

jeff

I think the Coda 03p is a great option. It has balanced i/o, all the gain, impedance, and capacitance adjustments you could ever want, and it is reasonably priced.

If you shop carefully, you could probably find one for $1k new. They don't show up on the used market often.

Never underestimate the value of a quality RIAA. Using the balanced i/o will dramatically reduce EMI/RFI from the delicate signal. Plus, if you think about it, MC cartridges are inherently balanced devices anyway.

People who run truly balanced phono are few and far between. I must admit this has left me scratching my head a few times...

You can pick up a Rogue 66 with Phono for under 800.00

I second the audible recommendation, and logistical limitations, of the Camelot Lancelot Pro. I would add that (1) customer service is outstanding from Camelot (they quickly sent me an odd-value resistor at no charge just for the asking), and (2) the unit is available new from Audio Advisor for US$899.

Thanks...any suggestions for a more idiot-proof unit? I don't have time to fiddle...especially during those rare times that I listen to LPs.