I picked up a Conrad Johnson ET5, which is now discontinued, but I think is a top-tier piece. Got it from Dick Moulding at Spearit Sound in Mass. I got it from these guys for a couple of reasons. First, a demo with a new warranty (and when it arrived it looked brand new). Second, they had the best price. Third, all of the other dealers tried to differentiate themselves from Spearit, thereby confirming to me that they were probably the best dealer out there. Finally, they willingly said they would take it back within a week of getting it if I didn't like it in my system. Right now, the ET5 is about $5,200 and I think it's among the best deals out there. Check all the reviews. Note: this is not a balanced preamp, but I am not running cables 300 yards long, either.
From there, you can get the outboard phono stage of your choice, depending on the type of music you like to listen to, and be on your way to a working-man's reference system for under $8,000 for these two components.
Happy listening.