I am in the market for a new pre amp and need to know the following. If a CD is digital does it mean that the best possible connection to the pre amp is a digital connection such as coaxial or toslink, or is the 2 channel analog connection equaly as well sounding? The reason I ask is because I listen to CDs so if a digital connection from a CD player to a pre amp yields the best sound quality then does it mean that I should be purchasing a pre amp which HAS a digital IN connection, either toslink or coaxial?

I've been a cd only guy as far back as I can remember. However, my dad has just given me a few old records and I want to play them on something that doesn't sound like a car wreck. I"m looking for a good starter turntable, tonearm and cartridge for under $1,000. What would you guys recommend. I'm hoping this might convince me to start building a better record collection.

How about some ideas on a good pre at around the $500 range. I currently have two Carver M-01's bridged and a Onix XCD-99 Cd player. I will be replacing an old Denon amp with the new pre. Speakers are Paradigm Monitor 9's. Thanks for any input.