Phonostage recommendations under $3K


Folks,

I am looking to step up from my current Parasound ZPhono XRM (still under 60 days audition trial). To be honest, I am quite pleased with its performance, feature set and flexibility. I mean what else you can expect from a $600 phono. While I enjoyed listening to vinyl through XRM, I feel there is room for improvement and XRM may be the weakest link in my vinyl setup. And since XRM is the only phono I’ve experienced in my setup, I don’t have quite have a reference point. So what else should I be considering under $3K?

I prefer a relaxed and slightly warm sound since I mostly listen to jazz genre.

I started to put together a list list based on sound quality and flexibility with gain and impedance settings.

Parasound JC 3+ Phono Pre
Allnic H-1202
Leben RS30 EQ (requires a SUT for MC Cart)

I hear high praises on Herron VTPH-2A but it’s bit more than I would like to spend at this time.

My current vinyl setup, Thorens TD1601, ZPhono XRM, Hana ML (low output - 0.4mv), Accuphase E-650 and Tannoy Canterbury’s.

I would really appreciate some recommendations based on your personal experiences. Thank you!
128x128lalitk
Interesting read on this, I've been meaning to update my phono with tubes, but couldn't find an Aesthetix Io, but couldn't find the one I wanted (single power supply and no volume).  I just picked up the Herron that was being spoke of, so thanks for the heads up!

I will reply after I have the opportunity to evaluate the Herron
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@chakster,

I just realized, I did not post the latest updates with my Analog setup. I no longer own the Thorens TD1601 / Hana ML and Parasound ZPhono.

My new Analog setup is,

SME Model 15A / Hana Umami Red Cart / EAT E-Glo S w/external LPS.

I got the SME and E-Glo here but waiting on Umami Red to arrive by this weekend. Apparently the distributor can’t keep up with the demand. And yes, at some point I’ll bring Vida for comparison with E-Glo S.