Budget Phono preAmp

I had (still have it, not in use) the Mani, and it is hard to beat for the cost.

That said, Jim Hagerman is selling his Bugle 3 on sale right now for $189, regularly $239. Check it out. Can also drive some MC carts, but the options are limited for those. Free shipping.

if you don’t know where you are going ( destination vs. incrementalism ), any road will get you there.

Without a doubt, the Mani represents incredible sonic value for $. as an aside, i believe all audiophiles should read the Schitt Book - Schitt Happened.

Aim higher as I believe your TT is capable of a lot, and speakers 2.

The Southerland as mentioned above certainly represents good value.

Jim

I agree Jim, and in that price range, would also consider the Soundsmith MMP3 @ $600.

Thanks Jim for your comments.

The road for me is to build slowly on a limited budget.  My speakers - at least for my current horizon are my destination.  The Linn I will ride as long as she lasts - It was great to inherit it from my parents along with a modest vinyl collection.  So I'll stick with Vinyl as a preferred format even into the future...because I like it! 

All that said - it sounds like the Southerland offers the kind of bang for the buck I'm after.  It isn't important to me that it be flexible for the future - just offer a sort of new found joy in my current setup.

It seems there isn't much love so far for the 2 rigs I listed - the Rega and Moon - surprising as I had read so much about both.  I've read a good deal about the Schitt Mani as well - but is it that it really offers the same sonics at about a 1/4 the cost?  If so, then I'll also consider it, but my budget is closer to the 500 dollar range (the Southerland is just over that cusp which is where I always end up when making these choices!)

Thanks again all!

That Sutherland says make offer so it is not carved in stone at the asking price! If you want it you should make an offer and see what happens!