Best phono preamp under $500?

Bellari VP130

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.

There are a fair amount of stages that I would consider over the Bellari. BUT, I tried one for a few weeks and with an upgraded wall wart and a better tube it was pretty dang good. Very quiet with the better power supply.

Jolida JD9