Mine starts with Ortofon 2M Bronze on Naim ARO arm fitted to an LP12 (with Greenstreet sub, Tiger-Paw top plate and Elevator) driven by Naim Armageddon.
I have an alternate MC set-up comprising Lyra Kleos into DV-P75, which is on vacation now.
This primary front end, complemented by a Yamaha T-1 tuner, Nakamichi Cassette Deck 1.5 and Densen B-440XS is routed into a Pioneer C-21 preamp.
Power amplification is done by a class-A Pioneer M-22, offering an adequate 30W per side. Just in case that is not enough, I have a DV HX-1.2mk2 on stand-by.
That lot is supported by single phase Mana Shelf, Table and 5-Tier.
Yamaha NS-1000Ms speak for themselves, really. The better the front end, the better they sing.