See the thread on phono stages for >$1000

I just want John's new tube clock!!

http://glass-ware.stores.yahoo.net/tubeclock.html

As for the phono kits...

If you are capable of working in a DIY type situation and finishing the work properly, then there is no reason not to go in such a direction. But only if you have experience in doing your own work like that.

If you do, I would suggest going to the PRP resistors instead of the metal film units. The PRP resistors can be purchased at 'the parts connexion'. Also buy the RCA jacks from the same place, and get the DH-labs all copper RCA's, and then buy an enclosure from ebay.

your biggest problem is going to be having this delivered to Columbia without being stolen during the final delivery/customs process!

I'm curious how you deal with that, as I'd like to know, having shipped things to Columbia before.

this guy has good enclosures and also toroidal transformers.

http://stores.ebay.com/Antek-inc_Enclosures_W0QQ_fsubZ5QQ_sidZ55712608QQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em322

the most expensive enclosure they have would work very well for one of Nelson Pass's power amplifier designs.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Power-Amp-Amplifier-...=item3a53e8fe70