@dayglow I understand but we do veer into gear now and then…I listened to 12 phono stages in my quest and the Herron came out on top of stages that would fit in my cabinet nook. I can say few of the 12 were quieter. The Herron out of production but can be found now and then… Good luck to you !,, The Goldnote also notable in easy settings, quiet and musical. The Croft RIAA is a steal if you only need MM gain. i never comment on gear i have not heard, so don’t consider my inputs as anything like comprehensive. Hopefully others will chime in.
I am a quiet tube robot
Jim