Best Phono You've Heard Under $2200

"I emailed them about changing the 220pf to 100pf and was told no on that." 

gochurchgo- You are concerened about a non issue. There are posts somewhere in the archives. The carts you want to use will be compatible with most phonostages available.

@tablejockey  since capacitance affects the sound I don't see how it's a non issue. I spent way more for low cap phono cables which I would not have done if I didn't have to. MM/MI carts sounds can be changed by cap. I'm not running MC but maybe in the future I will.

Herron VTPH-2a. Hands down the very best at any price.  Might find one used around your price point, if you;re lucky.  VERY lucky.

Handles LOMC and HOMM carts with equal quality.  Easy to manage loading.  Sunds terrific.  Does not get in the way of the music.  

If you shop for used gear in good condition you can do pretty well

I paid around $2K Can for my Venfetta SCP-2D (but it took several years of hunting to find one) and similar prices for my CJ Premier 15.

@avanti1960  there's no doubt the Sutherland is good. Maybe even great. I guess it's not exciting for what ever reason. Sounds dumb I agree. It's nothing to look at and by all accounts sounds like nothing. I can get one used so I'm debating it. If it doesn't excite me I can sell for what I bought for.

my OCD is in overdrive haha