I think the MMF 5 or 7 are good tables, and should surpass your digital rig - at least somewhat. I think they come pacakaged with a phono cartridge already installed, so they should be easy to get up and running. The Goldring cartridges that come with the tables are good cartridges of the MM type. The MMF tables tend to sound a little warm, and should be just what you are looking for, as far as the tonal qualities are concerned. I'd say it would be a good choice in your price range. I've heard some say that the 5 is good enough that spending more on the 7 might not be worth the extra dough.
I don't know about the Grado phono stage. I haven't used it. I have read about it, and the innovations in it may be quite good. At least it seems interesting.
Hard to go too far wrong with what you mentioned. Just remember that cartridges and tonearm cables take a little time to break in, so don't be too judgmental until after 30 hours or so, of play.
I don't know about the Grado phono stage. I haven't used it. I have read about it, and the innovations in it may be quite good. At least it seems interesting.
Hard to go too far wrong with what you mentioned. Just remember that cartridges and tonearm cables take a little time to break in, so don't be too judgmental until after 30 hours or so, of play.