Valve phono stage

Not considered that... would you say I should?

I think you are lookin’ for a needle in a hay stack. You be best off getting a tube phono with unbalanced connections !

The issue is balanced outputs.  There are some spectacular performing phono stages that are single ended.  My personal experienced opinion is that the Herron Audio VTPH-2a cannot be bettered at any price, but it has only single-ended outputs.  It fits your price target.  It fits your desire to use tubes.  It works very nicely with Lyra carts.  It is very flexible.  It comes with Keith Herron's unmatched customer service.

But you need balanced outputs.  

If you can find one, the Modwright SWP 9.0 SE phono stage is what I've been using for many years now. My purchase price (used) was $1650. I'll never need or want better.

Dan

Thanks for your replies. 

@yogiboy  I have considered this!

@bpoletti I've already contacted Keith inquiring about his VTPH-2A. This is a serious contender...

@islandmandan I'll have a look at that.