Is it time for a phono stage?


I've been back into vinyl for a year now after almost a 40 year break and love it. Started with about 180 and now have around 800. The problem I find is it is hard to listen to equipment before buying. My system is a Mac MA6600 integrated,VPIPrime with Ortofon 2M black and a set of Revel F-30. Most of the equipment I've purchased has been based on reviews and reputation. I'm looking to spend in the 2-4k range and am leaning towards tubes. Current choices are The Chinook and the Herron ftph-2. I also was thinking about the Asthetix Rhea but was told it might not be a good match due to the Mac's input impedance being low. Honestly a lot of the technical stuff can be overwhelming but I know it's important. Looking for advice. Thanks.
rkbcpa55
Of the 3 that you mention, the Herron VTPH-2 is probably the best option, and maybe overall in that price range. One more option that I'd consider in that range is the Allnic H-1201.
Buy used so that you can easily trade it out if it is not a big enough improvement for you. Take a look at K&K if you can build it yourself.