What is the BEST phono stage

There are likely to be many contenders.
Hot off the presses; just released.
http://www.bluecircle.com/index.php?page_id=8480

No need to spend so much to have it . Go to this site: gspaudio.co.uk and click the banner "all about the phonopreamp". Have the patience to read the whole article, you will reach analog nirvana with an objectve professional advise. Good luck !

Try the TRON Seven. If you want a tube phono stage, this is great.

The Steelhead is very, very good -- it is debatable whether it makes sense to spend more money, even for use in the most resolving system. That said, I do want to chime in about the Soundsmith cartridge/preamp combination mentioned above -- this refers to the "strain gauge cartridge", which requires its own special preamp. I have not heard a better better front end component -- you should audition it if you have the opportunity (Soundsmith is 45 minutes by train or car from Manhattan).

Thnks for the responses.... I of course would like to spend less, I just want something better (better to my ears) than the Manley.