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Looking for the best Preamp with a phono circuit built in

I have been using a Belles 28A preamp with a  built-in phono circuit for about 10 years...no complaints but I'm getting to the point of wanting to make some quality audio system purchases that will stick with me for the long haul. I'm 66 years old and not made of money; just want to relax and listen to the music.  I really don't want to go the separate phono pre / base pre route.  Please offer suggestions.
I live in Minneapolis and thus far at the top of my list is the Van Alstine (local company) Fet Valve CFR Preamplifier for about $2500.
I thank you for your feedback! 
128x128mdrummer01
perazzi28's avatar
perazzi28
241 posts
 
Your search should include the Sutherland Engineering N1 preamplifier.
https://sutherlandengineering.com/products/n1/
I've been using mine for about 2 years and could not be more pleased.  My search is over and yours could be too!  Single ended happiness that can drive reasonably long interconnects.  Check out the owners manual: https://sutherlandengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Sutherland-N1-OwnersManual.pdf
Regards,
Steve

audiobrian
186 posts
 
Give some thought to a VAC Renaissance mk5 with phono as a final preamplifier purchase. Sounds great and mates very well with solid state or tube amplifiers, for present and future versatility. 
harrylavo's avatar
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harrylavo
346 posts
 
The Van Alstine would be a good choice.  So would a used Audio Research SP6 series or SP8 if you want tubes, since AR located near you could update them and still come in at a reasonable cost.  These have some of the finest sounding phono stages ever (although MM only).  I can't give you much advice on solid state, but have a used early Carver in my second system that punches way above its weight.
celander's avatar
celander
1,503 posts
 
dB Systems would be a great choice for solid state. 
bobheinatz
727 posts
 
My Deja Vu preamp has a great MC phono section.  I also use a rebuilt Heathkit 151 built by Sams Audio that has a mc & mm phono section.  Nothing lacking here either.  
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