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Looking for the best Preamp with a phono circuit built in

I have been using a Belles 28A preamp with a  built-in phono circuit for about 10 years...no complaints but I'm getting to the point of wanting to make some quality audio system purchases that will stick with me for the long haul. I'm 66 years old and not made of money; just want to relax and listen to the music.  I really don't want to go the separate phono pre / base pre route.  Please offer suggestions.
I live in Minneapolis and thus far at the top of my list is the Van Alstine (local company) Fet Valve CFR Preamplifier for about $2500.
I thank you for your feedback! 
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lhasaguy's avatar
lhasaguy
95 posts
 
I currently own a McIntosh C220 tube pre amp that I bought for 2,500 used.  It fits my ears and system well.

And you can always get your money back out of it as one side benefit of McIntosh is how most of their gear holds its value over time.
ketchup
459 posts
 
Dobnbav,

How does the manual volume adjustment operate?
miketuason
264 posts
 
I’m very happy with my McIntosh C2300 tube preamp, very audiophile sounding.
tcbrinkley's avatar
tcbrinkley
9 posts
 
Manual volume means the AI has two volume knobs, one for each L&R channel, so they are also the balance control. I used to have one and it quickly became second nature to turn them together.

 I’ll also add my vote for the ARC SP9 III, great preamp and a really nice built in phono stage. You can change the cartridge loading by soldering different resistors in a spot that’s designed for easy access. 

Not endorsing these two over other recommendations here, but I had good experiences with them.  
celander's avatar
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celander
1,036 posts
 
OP: I have no reservations with any preamp the posters rave about. Go try to listen to them if you can. 
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