What cartridge works for you ???

The EAR is a tube preamp. Tubes are noisier than transistors...I would look for something that has a higher output. Don't let prices decive you!

I agree with Psychicanimal. I use a Dynavector 17-D which is in your price range, and a beautiful sounding cart. on my P-25.

However, due to the low out-put (0.23mv) I have had trouble finding the right phono section. Most do not have enough gain to present the signal without background noise. I have gone from a Rega Fono (ss), to a Coph Nia (ss), to a Herron (tube) phono-pre, without being able to get away from a hum (tube) or a hiss (ss) in the background.

Today my Ear MC3 step-up arrived, and I hope I am done for awhile.

All in all, I would recommend a MC at/or above 0.5mv out-put. That opens up many more options for your phono-pre.

By the way, I can make you a deal on either the Rega or the Coph Nia, after you decide on the cart.

Good listening, Dave.

The Shelter 501 would be an excellent choice for sound quality. It retails at $800, but you may be able to find a dealer to discount it a little for you.

I think a tube phono unit is an excellent choice, particularly at the front end, because they are softer on the overload margins, and this results in better performance during clicks and pops. Also, it keeps the grain out, at least until it reaches the your SS preamp.

I recommend a Benz Glider MC also - However, what ever cartridge you decide to use DO NOT overlook inquiry into the issue of whether or not it matches your arm. You will need to talk to someone with expert knowledge of the details of your arm, the cartridge you want to use, and the formulae for determining whether or not they will match. The best cartridge and arm in the world won't work well unless properly matched. If you are using a Rega arm for example, just ask Rega or their dealer. By the way, I think the Benz will match.

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned the Rega Super Elys or Exact. If you're looking for a sure thing go for a Rega cartridge with that Rega table. They're very easy to mount, and don't require much in the way of adjusting. They also just lowered the price.

Having said that, I just noticed a New Lyra Lydian Beta for $650.00. That might me the one to go for in your price range. I've heard it on a LP12 and it was incredible. The best analog I've ever heard. Of course that could have been the $8000 worth of LP12 it was attached to.
Here is the link to the Lyra:

http://cgi.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cl.pl?anlgcart&1051421318

-Patrick