Below about $250, most phono-pres are more similar sounding than different. Higher initial cost for better components usually pays off in better sound.
For most people who don't think they'll be making vinyl a hobby within a hobby, I usually recommend the TCC TC-750 with a regulated power supply. These run around $50-60. The trick with this one is to never unplug it, unless necessary. The longer it is plugged in, the better it sounds. I used one for years in my main system, it's in my second system now.
The Parasound Zphono is not the quietest phono-pre I have ever heard, but it has the biggest sound-field, along with very good detail and separation, that I've ever heard from a $200 box. The phono-stage in my Kenwood Basic C2 is quite good, and generally highly regarded. I prefer to listen to the Parasound, most of the time.
