Phono Stage Recommendation $3000

Try the Tavish Design Adagio for less than 2k or the Vintage or Classic for less than 1k - at least check out the website before deciding
works well with wide variety of carts separate power supply eyc
i use the MM with A23 and Fidelity Research SUT with phenomenal results  

@oilmanmojo

I used the ZYX with my UNIverse cartridge

I like another ZYX device for MC cartridges which can work well with any MM phono stage. This is ZYX CPP-1 Pre-Preamp (Headamp). I have replaced a block of 9 batteries inside CPP-1 and now it works even better. The goal of the ZYX headamp is their special input resistors made with the same cryo copper wire they use for coil of MC cartridges. The device looks very simple inside, but the sound quality is spectacular, i’ve been using it with ZYX cartridges before, but now i’m using it with very rare Klipsch MCZ Ruby MC cartridge. Pure magic with my JLTi !

Another great phono stage that impressed me pretty much is a brand new Gold Note PH-10 from Italy. In terms of usability for LOMC cartridges this is the best phono stage i have ever tried!

Here's one nobody mentioned, K&K Audio Maxxed Out Phono Stage.
You can get it with 2 inputs. I run mine with a Lyra Kleos SL with no problems, sounds wonderful.

`I have heard this one and it is within budget and superb - buy two if you need to

http://www.tron-electric.co.uk/phono-amplifiers/convergence-phono-stage/

you have IMO one of the best SS line stage on planet...at least give the Ayre phono a shot...