Solid state or Tubes preamp phono stage.

@blisshifi

If you had some, my inclusion of the CBS Hytron black plate 12au7’s changed the sound of the Trumpet, a lot. Much more air and extension over the Brimar 4003’s I had in. Along with my old Telefunken smooth plate 12ax7’s which also add much detail, silky smoothness, and clarity. Yes, the right mix of tubes can change everything. 

I get it, you like the ModWright, great, enjoy.

The best 12AU7 is no 12AU7.  Replace them with 12FQ7/6FQ7 (depending upon the filament voltage supplied to the socket) or with 6CG7 (which requires a minor re-wiring of the socket for the filament supply only and requires a 6.3V filament supply).  Then you've got something.

If you’re having trouble choosing between a tube or solid state phono amp, then what about the ASR Basis Exclusive?

https://asraudio.de/files/Test-ToneAudio-USA-HighEnd-Phono-Vorstufe-November2007-EN.pdf

@lewm 

The CBS Hytron's are actually 5814A's, not technically 12au7's

I decided to buy musical fidelity m6x to match m6si amplifier. I look at reviews on line and they were positive. I have had tubes In my system and decided to try some different.Everyone has different musical taste and people have there own opinion.