McIntosh C 47 phono stage versus the Herron phono.

You will only determine what sounds "better" by trying the Herron. Subjective and just and endless debate if an internal vs separate is "better"

There's a  reason many like the Herron, but it's not 100% liked as anything.

It's already apples and oranges since it's SS and the Herron is tubed.

The positive reviews on both mean nothing in the end. Your Rega and Thorens will sound very nice with the Herron. You may hear it as more "realistic/organic." Or, you you find your present setup  is fine.

2A? C47? it's a step up for sure.. You would have to do a little work and move to a valve Mac pre to get that sound... Most don't like the older Macs because there is no remotes.  I tell you, their phono section is in easy comp to most anything in the 5-7K range... Again no remote, and most need work or should be worked on.. The old C11s, C20, C22, (same as C11). GREAT phono sections...
C45-49, MX119,20,50s. Good, but they are not valve phono sections..
The C50 series are good too.... $$$$$

C220-2700, different... expensive and CAN have a great phono section if you work the valves a bit...

Regards

Maybe I asked the wrong question. I’m underwhelmed with the C47/ Alpheta 2 sound. It doesn’t sound as rich and full as I think it should. It doesn’t sound bad just underwhelming. I’m looking for that cart- phono stage that just knocks my socks off. I had an Art9 on my 124, but a late night accident broke the cantilever. I think eventually I’m going to get that one fixed. The Art 9 with an inexpensive Vista Audio preamp was better than my present setup. 
So I guess my question is what’s underwhelming the cart or the phono stage or both?