Best Phono solid state under 2K?

I had a Moon LP5.3 that I've just sold two weeks ago. I really loved that unit. It offers superb bass and dynamics. Sound is natural and coherent.

Plus, the many possible adjustments with internal jumpers are easy to do and can change the sound, just like tube rolling can.

I sold it because I'm now with Luxman integrated which offers a surprising phono stage!

I picked up a used PS Audio GCPH phono stage for under $600, and it is wonderful. It has both balanced and SE outputs, adjustible loading and gain, and a front panel volume control (With Remote!) Such versatility is nice to have in any audio component.

Audiomat Phono 1.5 or 1.6. Very natural/organic; I prefer it over quite a few others I've owned. Only limitation is its maximum of 200 ohm loading for MC's.

It's a little more than $2K with all the upgrades but I would encourage you to consider the K&K maxxed out.

While I have not heard many of the current contenders at that price point, I would agree w Jtimothya- ZYX Artisan. There might be some new stock left @ former dealer Sorasound that would be very close to your budget or definitely used would be under $2K. A very, very good piece that can hold its own w such top end phono stages as Manley Steelhead, Doshi, and high end VAC. Its not AS good, but the difference is small. Plenty of gain for LO MC carts (active gain stage) w none of the difficulties associated with transformer matching.