Phono Preamp Selection


I have no idea of which Phono Preamp I should purchase.  I read the reviews from Audio Science and the author provides testing criteria and results for Phono Preamps. I do not have a awesome system - rather it is just a nice system. I reviewed (Pro-ject Phono Box DC MM/MC  / Cambridge Audio Duo / IFI Zen / Schitt Skoll ). My turntable is a MoFi with a Hana MC Cartridge. 500.00 is my budget as I am just a listener of old vintage records.  My amp is a Denon and my speakers are bookshelf Triangle(s). Appreciate your time and responses.

smerk

In that range I would suggest a Parks Puffin, a tube Parks Budgie, or an Audion tube phone stage.

The Budgie was great but the Audion was next level.

The Pearl 3 Phonostage Built and ready for use, for the monies being asked in the Link, really does give a substantial VFM.

This type of design using quality components, when built by the hand of a competent EE, or enthusiast, adept with EE Skills, will produce a Phonostage very difficult to compete with. 

Have a read on the Pearl 3 Thread to be found in the Link, to learn about the designers, design concept, through to the Builds being produced and user reports on offer.

https://www.diyaudio.com/community/threads/pearl-3-clone-build.417145/

 

    

You might check to be certain, but I believe that the Hana's will work with a transimpedance phono stage. Look for a used Sutherland TZ vibe. They retail at $1400 but you may find one on the used market.  Ron Sutherland makes 2 more expensive models, and you may catch someone upgrading!