+ 1 for Puffin. It has a lot of features and well supported by the creator. (Prince of a fellow)
I'm a Mcintosh guy, so they are alway on my list. I picked up a MP100 for 1600.00 its very close to the MM/MC in the C2500/2600/2700
sonicaly. Side by side I can't tell any difference in the phono section of the SS pres like C45,46,47,48,49,50,52 or MX 120,121,150,160.
ALL have MM, MI, MC options. MP100s are balanced out they work well for TT isolation and using long XLRs to a pre. Good for parties!
Early MX110z, C11, C20, C22. They have some of the best phono section for valves made in my opinion. Easy to upgrade and they resell
for what you paid, SO if you don't like it, sell it. 50 years and 50+ vintage pieces from Mac later, I check twice a week!! I love the house
sound of the older Macs with the phono sections worked and GOOD Telefunken valves.
I LOVE Herron. If you can find one, V1 or V2. The last version is a VT-PH2 is a serious piece of well made gear. Bulletproof. 18-4,000.00
They easily rival 6-10K phono preamps. Fet/valve, LONG valve life and easy valve configuration for gain setting. Good factory loading
plugs and still has factory support from Mr. Herron. NO XLR options. )-: Wonderful person to talk too. Mr. Keith Herron/semi-retired.
Decware basic model, no goodies added, unless your in to reel to reel direct head playback. Super quiet units too. If you can find a used
one (you won't) 12-2,000.00. The finish has a bit to be desired. My only complaint. PTP wiring if you're into that.
Tube rectified with a AO3 smoker. If your not used to that type of valve, they can be a little spooky. LOL
DIY, there are some top notch DIY phono sections kits. DYODD I'm not suggesting one, BUT have built 4 that were very quiet and fun.
Cocktail. Some people chuckle but for a purpose built preamp/streamer/CD/Server/phono section, and balanced out it's a great option for
an all in one kind of thing. 45X was a great addition and a VERY well built unit. Physically pick one up! The have weight and very good build
quality inside and out. 13-2200.00 Depends on new, used, refurbished.
I added what wasn't there (?), but I want to reintegrate my support the Mighty Puffin. THAT is a great unit. There is something about the
way it looks and works. 350-650.00
I use it with Russco/QRKs/Sparta/SME or Woody broadcast builds. HEAVY Shure or Stanton MM carts. Soundsmith too.
Regards