Phono Stage, How much do I need to spend, New or used.


Hello all, I need some opinions on Phono stages. I currently have a VPI scoutmaster with a vessel MM R3SM cartridge and a Schiit  Mani phono stage. This set up just does not fill the room like my digital does, anyone have any opinions on what I need to do to make this happen. How much do I need to spend on a phone stage, new or used.
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I was going to write that The Music Room posted a used Herron VTPH-2A yesterday for $2,299 but it sold within a day. Hopefully you were the lucky purchaser.
Hello,
I have a great recommendation for the VPI and your cart. Sutherland KC Vibe. $899 for a really nice preamp.
https://sutherlandengineering.com/products/kc-vibe/
 I have the Mani also. It is nice on a cheap cart. But on a VPI with a nice cart you need really good equipment. I agree with the Herron but it is up there in price. Also, you have to be careful with tubes. On some systems they can be to mellow. Sutherland handles both types of carts with good selection. I liked 47k and 50db of gain. there are more expensive models. The sweet spot is the 20/20 for $2200 and $400 more for an upgraded power supply 
https://sutherlandengineering.com/products/2020/
I have heard both of these. The KC Vibe was really nice on my $500 TT. If you are in the Chicagoland area I use 
https://holmaudio.com/
I am still deciding which VPI I want and will match it with the 20/20 or the Little LOCO. They have an upgrade program. So I can start with the VPI prime scout and a Sutherland KCVibe and trade up to a VPI prime and a Sutherland 20/20 a year from purchase in case I win the lottery. I hope this helps because I have listened to all of this myself so I am coming from experience. To fill the room upgrade your speakers or your regular preamp. 

iFi Audio iPhono 3 would be my recommendation for a good starting point, for a $grand, new.
if you have more in the pot then anything from Allnic Audio should deliver, assuming you’re not averse to tubes. Haven’t heard the Herron phono that people are recommending but given its following I’m sure it sounds good.

Don’t listen to anyone that says vinyl/phono won’t fill a room, that’s utter nonsense!

+1 for the Herron. I had one for a little while, loved it! It if you want something