Best value phono $1-1.5k

Tom, all of the cartridges I ran into the JLTI were LOMC with outputs from 0.25mV to 0.5mV. Unless you go all the way down to below 0.25mV or want to use a passive preamp you will be fine with the MC gain.

Also the specs state 55dB gain for the JLTI. Using the same loading the JLTI played louder than the Dynavector P75II at the 60dB setting or the Ph.D. at 60dB. Seems like the specs are quite a bit understated and the actual gain of the JLTI is around 60-62dB.

CMK, what cartridge are you considering?

I just bought the Musical Surroundings Nova Phonomena. It sounds great. Quiet, detailed (without sounding harsh), and great imaging and soundstaging. I have nothing to compare it to except my old "built-in" phono stage on my current amp.

K&K Audio has a new "budget" phono pre you might consider.

Heed is another option at $1k.

dealer disclosure.