Linn Sondek Phono Preamp

The best Audio research phono stage you can afford. I have a Linn (nearly) Klimax with an Audio Research Reference 3SE phono stage… it sounds even better than the Linn Klimax phono stage. Nothing “warm” about these preamps… just detailed and very natural. Also check out Presto.

If your budget stretches to 2.5k, the PS Audio Stellar (something) is stellar sounding.

Alternatively, the musical fidelity phono is excellent for the price.

The PS audio phono is much better of course.

Former Stellar phono owner here. It was not my cup of tea. However the GCPH modified by PCX is sublime. 

If the tube sound is what you seek Space Tech Labs produces high quality gear at “reasonable” prices. I currently own a unit with the outboard Super Rectifier. The sound is unbelievable. The only caveats being MM or high output MC only and single input. 

Thanks for all the advice!