Grado reference platnum or Grado statement platnum

the low output version requires a fairly specialized phono preamp. MM inputs don't have enough gain, but many mc inputs - e.g., using transformers - won't work or won't provide adequate 47K loading. You'd probably be better off with the high output version.

This is the first time everybody has recommended the same thing. You get a lot of bang for your buck with the Grado high output Platnum.

Don't apologize for your DP62. And don't assume that a mid-level VPI turntable is any better. Properly serviced and in a good plinth, your DP62 is a superb tt. I agree with all the others; it appears you would be best off with the high output version, given your present phono stage. I like the vintage "feel" of your chosen components.

By the way (from the Grado website), "All Grado cartridges now use a derivation of the moving iron principle which feature patented OPTIMIZED TRANSMISSION LINE cantilever technology, PIVOTED FIXED AXIAL STYLUS-GENERATOR MODULE, and Grado's FLUX-BRIDGER GENERATOR SYSTEM." So they are not MM; they are MI. This means nothing except that MI cartridges have lower moving mass than either MM or MC, which is a good thing and why Grado's sound so good, IMO.

I had an XTZ Grado.
For the imaging, I loved it.
In every single possible other way, my high output Benz Ace I bought used...for the same amount of money, blows it away...bad.
For me, it really was like re-discovering my vinyl collection.

Wow folk!

Thank for all the support. I do like the DP62. It is a high WAF TT. I bought it for my wife. She likes it because it looks good, and the arm lifts at the end of the music. I have a Thorens TD-160 and a TD-190 in mothballs should the DP62 should ever fail. Perhap the local HiFi dealer besmirched my DP62 because he want to sell me Rega RP-3 for $1,100 + change. It' a good thing I don't impulse buy. So far I haven't invested too much for the system:

3 McIntosh MC-60 mono amp not working $40.00 /per amp I fixed them.
1 Audio refinement preamp used $275.00 off c-list
2 ESS amt1a speakers working fine ugly but free. I made them prettier but they till need work.
1 Teac X-10R tape deck not working free. I fixed it.
1 Magnavox CDB-610 work fine $30.00 C-list
1 Denon DP62L $250 perfect condition
1 Magnum Dynalab dealer Demo perfect condition. $600.

so far I'm keeping it on a budget.

I don't earn as much money working at a grocery tore a I did as a Mechanical Engineer o the system evolution will be slow.