adjustable gain phono preamp

Looks suitable but out of budget... Project do something at less cost which I hope to try next week.

I don't understand the need for adjustment. Why not just get one that matches your cartridge?

Well, what if you decide to change your cart to one with different gain (or loading)?

Phono amps are more durable than carts.

Leon Wadsworth posted:

Arcam rPhono

 

Nice one but why a the standard cap load of 120 pF? Especially Audio Technica MM carts are very sensitive for cap load and sound best with a total cap of only 100-150 pF. Normally armwiring and external phonocable sum about 100 pF so with a total of 220 pF is way too high.  Why not zero or 50pF als standard?

Robiwan posted:

Leon Wadsworth posted:

Arcam rPhono

 

Nice one but why a the standard cap load of 120 pF? Especially Audio Technica MM carts are very sensitive for cap load and sound best with a total cap of only 100-150 pF. Normally armwiring and external phonocable sum about 100 pF so with a total of 220 pF is way too high.  Why not zero or 50pF als standard?

The op asked for recommendations for a 2m cart?

I don't have an opinion to share regarding your scenario as I don't have nor have ever used AT.

Ortofon 2M carts sounds a little dull is my experience. 

Robiwan posted:

Ortofon 2M carts sounds a little dull is my experience. 

I used a 2m blue for a while and couldn't say that it was dull...  

OP I hope you get sorted.