Good Phono Pre-Amps...$500 to $1500

Sonic Frontiers SFP-1, Signature version or Phono 1 in used conditions. I have the SFP-1 version (using with at least 2 mV MM cartridge) and it beats the modified and unmodified EAR 834P in term of image, sound stage, and dark background. I sold the EAR and keep the SFP with the rest of my SF gears, SF Power 2, SFL-2, SFD-2 MKII.

In that price range, the Graham Slee ERA Gold MkV is the champion. It has to be heard to be believed. I'm using it in my system, and it literally reproduces the soundstage with all the space, dynamics, and agility of the original performance. I'm using it in a very revealing system (Krell FPB, Pass Aleph P, Martin Logan ReQuest, VPI Scout/w Dynavector 20XH), and its speed is phenominal.

One reviewer said it has the speed of tubes (25Mhz bandwidth), with the energy of solid state. Awesome vocals, with bass that rivals digital. They are hard to find, due to its reputation. You can find them at www.underwoodhifi.com Ask for Walter...he'll take care of you.

i haven't heard the graham slee but it sounds fantastic. but if a low output cart is to be used, a step up will be required, probably bringing the total package to over $1500. On the other hand, the dynavector p-75 will provide amazing results for low output cartidges through design that it is specifically designed for. While it's perfomance for other carts is supposed to be great, it's at the low output area that it gives units 2-3 times it's price a run.