Back to the original question... my upgrade path was Blue Point #2, then Ortofon 10x5, then AT ART9. I have been very happy with the ART9 for about a year. So much so, that when time comes to replace it, I will be getting another ART9. It now has around 400-500 hours on it, and sounds fantastic.
Check other reviews on ART9, and I think you'll see you cannot go wrong. That said, maybe others like Shelter would be different, and maybe even better in your system... but you can't go wrong with the ART9. IMO, it's a good high-end value.
I think your Allnic Phono Preamp would mate very well with it, and should sound great! It has 62db of gain, or 66db, either of which should be excellent.
Check other reviews on ART9, and I think you'll see you cannot go wrong. That said, maybe others like Shelter would be different, and maybe even better in your system... but you can't go wrong with the ART9. IMO, it's a good high-end value.
I think your Allnic Phono Preamp would mate very well with it, and should sound great! It has 62db of gain, or 66db, either of which should be excellent.