Phone stage for VPI Scout 1.1


Can anyone recommend a phono stage in the $300- approx. $1000 (new or used) range for my newly purchased Scout. I know there are tons out there however, any that stand out in this range or match well with VPI?
samzx12

I had access to a battery operated Sutherland that cost 3k new. I compared it directly to a Musical Surroundings Phonomena I ($1200) in same system.

Based on what you like you would like the Sutherland. It had more of what people would consider a typical tube sound. Warmth, smooth, not as upfront and not as tight bass.

The phenomena was much more upfront with tighter bass. The Sutherland was a bit better at separating voices from the mix a tab bit quieter. Overall different presentations. That being said the Sutherland edged out the phenomena but considering the price difference the phenomena did very well and was not blown out of the water.

But again a Sutherland is more of the sound you may be going for.

Darkstar thank you very much for the advice. I think I will go for the Sutherland plus they review very well. I can always sell it for pretty much what I paid it I'm sure if I'm not satisfied.
Eastern Electric Minimax might be a good one to check out if you're into tubes. Is switchable for MM, MC high and MC low.

The new Musical Fidelity MX-VINL has caught my eye and looks very much like a winner @ $999. I've been highly satisfied with its predecessor, the M1-ViNL, along with a VPI Scout Signature with SDS speed control and Shure M97xE with a JICO SAS stylus. Certainly tough to beat at the price.
Butch thanks for the recommendation. If my offer on a SE PH-3D doesn't get accepted I will look closer at the Minimax. I do NOT like this new Audiogon buying and selling system. Before I could get a response in a reasonable amount of time and now it can take 2 freaking days. Grrrrr :(