Phono stage or pre Amp? which is most important.

I would think nicer thoughts about your equipment,

The only thing 'cheap' (simply inexpensive) is the cartridge, I would suggest keeping it for a spare and getting a better one now or soon.

Stylus shape is important, definite audible differences, have a read:

https://sound-smith.com/articles/stylus-shape-information

Fineline, Microline, SAS, Shibata, all cost more, however they last longer, so look at cost per hour when comparing.

This one would be a terrific choice IMO

https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/vm750sh

IF/AFTER you get further into Vinyl, then think about 
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Let's talk about proper cartridge mounting and precise alignments.

A few tools are needed, and some acquired skills are needed.

What are your skills?

AT 95 is a nice performer and your tt combo will benefit from a better phono stage. Start there and practice your alignment skills with this cartridge. 
G

My experience tells $500 phono pre and $1000 preamp will be a better choice than $250 phono pre and $2000 preamp.
The difference between $500 and $250 phono pre will be considerably bigger than the diff between $1000 and $2000 preamp.

In terms of partst:
$150 phono stage and $500 phono stage can be absolutely the same, but with different label and different box. Price is nothing in this case (in this category at least) and can’t be a guide. 

The Parasound Z-phono is a real killer in the lower price level. Also there are some vintage preamps that are known for having an exceptional phono stage. One of them is the Adcom GFP 565. Quite a performer at it's price point but with no digital inputs if that's an issue.