very dumb question

Thanks for all the responses and advice.  It was basically a screw up when I purchased the Brio-R.  I wanted to Rega RP6 so that is ok but then the conversation turned to the phono stage and there was a communication breakdown between me and the salesman on the phone.  That coupled with confusion on my part thinking that we were discussing a phono stage rather than an integrated amp with a phono stage led me to the purchase of the Brio.  I realized about two days later when i awoke suddenly in bed and said "wait a minute" and knew I had screwed it up.  I have not even received it yet so should be able to send back no problem and shop for the phono stage.  I am probably going to talk to the people at Needle Doctor for advice but any standouts for the phono stage that mates well with the RP6?

I am very happy to hear that you can return the Brio.  Why pay for something that you don't need.

The phono stage should really be matched to the cartridge you have and not the TT.  So what cartridge are using with the RP6?  Also what is your budget for the phono stage and I am sure you'll get many good recommendations.

So I called and caught them before anything had shipped and cancelled the Brio.  Was able to change it to an open box Rega Aria phono stage that they had.  Originally that was what was in my mind at the original order I think (Brio, Aria, Brio, Aria - confusing).  Anyway I am using Exact cartridge with the RP6.  I wanted to get away from some dullness in my original setup.  Hopefully it will be a good match and seems to be a good fit for my music and needs (at the risk of being too bright but that is what Audiogon is for).  Thanks again for the help

"Was able to change it to an open box Rega Aria phono stage that they had"

IIf you find the SS Rega uninspiring, for about the same retail cost are  2 tubed units that appear to get good reviews-Tavis Audagio
Decware Zen Triode.

Both should deliver the tube magic that SS won't match at your price point 

So I called and caught them before anything had shipped and cancelled the Brio. Was able to change it to an open box Rega Aria phono stage that they had.

Good for you.  I am glad you were able to cancel the order on the Brio and swing a deal on a standalone phono stage. 

I am sure the Aria will be just fine with your Rega Exact MM cartridge and you successfully kept your wish of keeping Rega with Rega.  Just follow the instructions and configure your phono stage accordingly for a MM cartridge as the Aria has MC capabilities too if you ever go down this road in the future.

Enjoy the new toys!