Upgrading to an external Phonostages for my system

Another vote for the herron. I too have heard nothing better at any price. Some that may be just as good but nothing better. If I were looking in the price range you were I would get a bottlehead Eros kit. That's what I would buy if I didn't already have a herron. The kits are super easy to assemble with a support group if you need help. I bought a beepre preamp for 1300$ and with a few mods it is the best I've heard. It replaced a 7k retail vacuum state which is well regarded. Plus the pride in ownership cannot be overlooked. And you will learn a little on the way. 

So I made a decision and picked a Herron VTPH-1 mm. I took your advice bpoletti and found one at a great price. I was considering the Manely Chinook, Allnic -1201, and the sunderland 20-20 but for the money I think I made the right choice. Lot's of anticipation here!

I'll let you know how it sounds once I get it into my system.

Thanks to all of you for your insightful suggestions and advice.  

Audiogon forum is only as good as those that participate and you guys represent extremely well. 

Thanks

Great choice!  Please keep us posted on how it sounds when you get it all set up.  Enjoy!

Update

I've had the Herron VTPH-1mm in my system for about a month and a half. The improvement of the overall sound over the Harman Kardon on board phono stage was immediate and dramatic. (Not that the HK phono stage was bad.)

I'm very happy with this purchase… the cost to sound improvement value ratio is excellent.

Now onto the next step in my search for music listening nirvana. 

Thanks for the update. Someone said tube phono preamps are not quiet. I have to respectfully disagree as long as it is well designed and the tubes are not faulty.