The H-1200 retails around $1600 and the H-1500 around $5000 and the H-3000 approx $10,000 and yes, they're that good. I have tried many phono stages in the past 12 months...many big names where people and magazines raved about and none actually floats my boat until the H-1200 came around (on loan from a buddy whom also had many great stages come and go) and make me realize how live and magical my LP's could sound.
I ended up buying the H-1500(which I bought unheard). The H-1500 I have now has a certain magic and life to it's sound which makes it very hard to describe. People often associate equipment being warm, bright or neutral. The Allnics is none of the above. It's one word....."natural". It could be due to the LCR networks in the RIAA it uses which is very uncommon at these prices. The unit is very quiet with enough gain for my Dynavector XV1s and my Audio Note IO2v.
Lately, I have done a head to head between the H-1500 and the H-3000. If your source and system is capable, there is definitely an appreciable difference between the units.
Other phono stages that are value for money is the PS Audio GCPH which others have recommended. I have heard great things about this unit. More so of the underwood modded ones. Have not heard the EAR 834 in a very long time. The last time I owned one, it seemed to have a very dark and thick sound. I believe there are many mods out there (google) that you can do to make this unit sound better.
Lastly, if you're looking for musical enjoyment, the Allnic is all you need.
