Best phono preamp under $500?


Preferably new not used although if there is a used "champ" in my price range I guess I'd consider it.
abrew19
u could try the Adcom GFP 565. They can be had for less then half of your looking price. They have a fabulous phono and the line stage is excellent to. I would also look for a Classe DR-5 model pre-amp for about $500 or a little more and have a world class front end. Both are excellent in there price and neither will leave u thinking your being short changed.
Pass Labs Pearl, though it was never sold commercially. I occasionally see user built ones, but at slightly more than $500. Pretty much covering the parts cost. In my opinion with my higher output MC cartridge it sounded much the same as the retail Pass Ono.
This is $99 over budget but consider Van Alstine Vision, see the Van Alstine discussion board on audio circle. The built in version is less expensive. I have the built-in previous version and it sounds great.