Phono pre amp

@chakster 
Thanks I will look into it. I appreciate the input.

chasda, I won't contradict any of the above posts, but in my experience vdH cartridges come in wood boxes.  Inside the box, on the underside of the removable cover, you will usually find hand-written specs for that particular cartridge.  Those data are what I would use for a reference, not whatever anyone else here got off the internet.  What you want to look for is "cartridge output" and "compliance".  Output will be stated in millivolts (mV) in relation to a stylus velocity.  Since stylus velocity is standardized at either 3.54cm/sec or 5.0cm/sec, we can disregard the velocity for now.  Just tell us what is the output in mV.  Likewise, what is the compliance in terms only of the numbers given?  The cartridge output gives you a guide to know how much phono stage gain you need.  The compliance will help to optimize tonearm matching.  You will get more help here if you provide that information.

And the other question is you elude to both at once. Many pre's will do each but you will have to change gain and loading.

If its .65mV that's medium output not low and just about any phono stage will have enough gain. For around $1k you should be able to find a good used Audio Research PH3SE, a darn good phono stage, good enough I was very happy with mine for a good 15 years. Only upgraded to Herron VTPH2A two years ago. My PH3SE was used with medium output Benz Glider, Ruby, and Koetsu Black Goldline, all with nearly identical output to yours. 

Other than that there's lots of good new phono stages for under a grand, and as others have said they will ALL be a massive improvement. Massive. As in what you heard going to the VPI that made you so happy all over again. Just like that. 

Don't forget though that with a phono stage you will also want to use a very good quality interconnect. 

@lewm 
Yes the specs are hand written in the box., not the easiest to read.
Output is .65mV
I'm not seeing compliance, but the Eff Arm mass is 14 grams.