Tube preamp with or without phono stage?


I’m looking to add a preamp to my two channel system. Currently I’m using an Audio Alchemy DDP-1 as the pre fed by a Simaudio Moon 110LP as the phonostage. My amp’s a Benchmark AHB-2 and speakers are Paradigm Persona 3F. The Personas and Benchmark are recent purchases and I’m rebuilding backwards. I’ve been targeting a clear, detailed, neutral and dimensional soundstage. Very low noise and distortion.

I’d now like to add a tube preamp and have a few questions. What are the pros and cons of the phonostage built into the pre vs as a separate? My amp only has balanced in’s but I can use an XLR to RCA adapter if necessary, are there any concerns with using the adapter? Finally, any recommendations up to about $3-5k with some flexibility?

Thanks
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I was PM'd with a response I thought I'd share.  One of the benefits would be to eliminate the interface type and cables associated with a separate phono stage.  I see how this could reduce noise and interference.  Another point was that some integrated phono stages can be limited in their ability to change between MM and MC, and issues with gain can result.  I'll need to be careful about this.

Some models I know have a phonostage option I'm considering are:

BAT VK23-SE
Vinnie Rossi LIO

I'm also considering, without an onboard phonostage

Backert Rhumba
Shiit Freya
Rogue Audio RP-5,  It has tubes, a great mm/mc phono stage that is fully adjustable and many inputs and outputs.  IMHO, it is the best 3500.00 preamp out there.
If your budget allows it, go for a external phono stage for maximum flexibility. Or else, Dan at Modwright can install  phonostage option for $300. 

You may consider following pre, 

ARC LS27
Modwright SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition

Cheers!

If your budget allows it, go for a external phono stage for maximum flexibility

Do you think an external phono stage will diminish the sound quality by requiring additional interfaces and set of cables?
Take a look at Atma-Sphere MP-3. I don't have personal experience but it does seem to have what your looking for. Full function pre w/mm, balanced, and a huge deal for me are the dual L/R vol controls and I'm pretty sure I could run the Statement Grado with it. There may be newer versions in your price range I'm not that up on it.