Best Pre-Amp with Phono Stage

Get a used counterpoint sa-5000 or sa-5.1, have it modified at altavistaaudio.com, and sit back as these full-featured preamps blow away the competition. Really! At under $3k total.

Sorry to avguygeorge, didn't think I was condeming anyone. 59burst asked a question and I gave my opinion based on my expierience. Thought that was the idea of this forum. Peace avguygeorge!

The THOR is a wonderful preamp with phono; or check out the line and phono separates

Me too,Bryceeboy.(sorry) I get carried away time to time.And yes I was a little testie defending my pre amps' honor.It "speaks" to me,but can't defend itself.I love this site.I'm new here,-2 weeks.Heck, I hadn't thought about sep.phono stage.See all the help we get here.Would love to hear Atma-Sphere. This site allows many products previously out of MY reach to become accessible.The dealers must/or should be worried. Buying used and having a place to sell your used stuff is GREAT. The dealers have had it their way to long.

My vote is for the VAC preamp with phono stage CPA1 - MKII. This is one of the finest preamps and the phono stage is outstanding. I sold the ARC PH3 for this preamp. This is a tube preamp with seperate power unit. Very nice, and used is within your price range.