Looking 4 a high quality phono line stage $5k-$8k

Thanks Kurt! That's good info.

If willing to accept tubes and buying used (to stay in your price range):

Aesthetix Io Signature (add the optional volume controls with the single high level input and your back to one integrated device)

Atma-Sphere MP-1 (a full function preamp with an excellent phono stage)

Manley Steelhead (single ended)


For purchase new within your price range:

Aesthetix Rhea

Herron VTPH-2 (single ended only)

I'm curious about your criteria for balanced input from the cartridge (if I read you correctly). The Atma-Sphere preamps are one of the few I know to use a true balanced input. I believe the BAT VK P10SE may have balanced input, as well. The Aesthetix has a DIN connector input, but it converts in first gain stage to balanced and then is fully balanced from the second gain stage on.
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The original VK-P10 is single-ended in the first gain stage(even when using XLR phono inputs.) The later VK-P10SE is fully balanced from input to output.

In this price range I second the recommendation of a used Atma MP-1. If you can live without a remote control, this might be your last ever preamp.

I have to agree with Rushton, the Aesthetix IO Signature is a great option, finding one used will be the problem. They show up every once in a while, but go fast.

I have to disagree about the recommendation for the ASR Basis Exclusive, it did not harmonize well with me or my system, it seemed to sterile sounding as I recall. It was very detailed but I thought it lacked some naturalness and thus caused my listening sessions to be somewhat less exciting then I thought they would be. Believe me, I wanted to like the ASR as I live in Germany and can get a great discount minus the VAT and pay the non-export price, but it did not happen. Good luck.

V/r
Audioquest4life

Rushton- Thanks for your comments. I'l explain what I meant as my current arms (RB300 and Graham) both terminate in Din connectors. I have a Cardas GR phono cable that terminates in XLR so I want a phono stage that accepts XLR connectors, and is truly balanced.

Thanks everyone for the recommendations. So far there are a lot of similarities between the suggestions which is great. I know a big component is listener preference but I plan to buy something used and try it.

BTW my $5k-$8k price is new. My budget will top out at about $4500 used.