Hi Ian (Data),
Here's a suggestion. Of the pre amps & phono stages you have tried, which ones did you like? Maybe you can look at one of these & pick one up again. Then you could tweak it.
Did you get the Audio Innovations L2 pre? If so how about tweaking it. I did think that the SJS Arcadia model 1 was one of the best for under a £1000. I do think this can be improved with tweaking.
I would look at passive pre amps. Look out for Audio Synthesis units or build your own. You could pick up a unit like a NVA, Audio Innovations, etc and change the pot for a stepped attunator. Also look at the WAD kit as way forward.
Look at this site for some interesting kits. I like the look of the transformer passive.
http://www.triode-systems.com/diyhs_kit_sales.htm
If you are after an all in one valve pre amp with a good phono stage, try the EAR 864 which can be picked up for less than a £1000. Also look at the Croft pre amps. Look out for a Croft Vitale pre which has a very good phono stage. It is excellent value for money. The only downside is that it has dual mono volume controls which can be a pain. Croft have been making pre amps since the early 80s & items such as the micro, super micro & mega Micro can be picked up 2nd hand.
As for speakers, what is the size & layout of your room & how much free space do have to play with. If stuck for space, lookout for a pair Snell K which can be had for little money. Again what have you tried & what did you like about them?
P.S. I know you have a Gyrodek & WAD Triode amps, what is the rest of your system. What speakers are you using now?
SCIDB
