Phono preamp - need some advice

[sabernar]

I'm in the market for a phono preamp. I'm currently in the middle of a slow upgrade of my system (just got Monitor Audio RS6's & RS1's from my front and rear speakers) and I'm planning on upgrading my phono to a low-end audiophile level (Rega Planar 2? Music Hall MMF 2.1? I'm not sure yet...).

I was wondering what level phono preamp I should go for. Are any of these decent enough?

Pro-Ject The Phono Box MKII
Cambridge Audio Azur 540P
Music Hall MMF Phono Pack

I don't want to go crazy on this piece of hardware. Even though a tube preamp would wonderful, I have a budget (~$100) that I need to stick to.

Thoughts? Ideas?

Thanks for your help in advance.

 

[emorphien]

I'd add the NAD PP-2 to that group as well. I couldn't tell you what the best choice among these is though. I bought the PP-2 because I desperately needed a preamp and it was available locally for a good price. It has turned out to be just fine for my needs and I'm still using it.

 

[MUDSHARK]

If you don't get much response here try Stereophile's boards. They have a number of vinyl people there that could likely give advice on the strengths and weaknesses of your stated options. I use the phono pre-amp in my Prasound pre-amp so I'm unable to offer an opinion.

 

[c_h_shin]

How about a used Parasound zPhono? As I recall, it was on one of the "Recommended Lists" recently.