Best phono-pre for mc-systems below $ 1.500,00 ?

Hi. I just purchased a Omtec Antares. Forget about all EAR, Clearaudio, Pass, Whest etc. This one is MUCH better and very close to the hand full of realy outstanding products like FM Acoustics, Boulder, Walker or Manley. Every vinyl lover should at least give it a listen - my favourite at a "reasonable" price € 1.500,-.

$1500 is a tough price point for phono stages, imo.

In tubes, I'd take a look at the Wright WPP200C + Wright transformer at around $1100 new - hard to find used. For solid state, the Camelot Lancelot Pro is a nice battery powered unit, w/ flexible loading options; here, look for a used one.

K&K Audio phono pre kit: $1500. For the price it would be hard to do better.