Manley Chinook SE MK2

Modwright PH9.0?  Just over $5k with X/T upgrades but good stock.

Lamm, used ARC REF Phono 2se, Herron w HRS damper plate, Nimbus and Nos tubes ….. The Manley is very good…but you have lots of choices

I use a  VPI Classic  also. Different flavor cartridge.

AT ART9 or spend a little more Lyra Delos or whatever in  between.

You're setup is solid. Open the wallet wider later for a new table- then next level phonostage.

The  Chinook SE has been in my setup.

I compared the MKI Chinook to a Zesto Andros 1.2

The Zesto was more neutral, more detailed, more dynamic, whereas the Chinook had a warmer, fuller, more tubey presentation. I kept the Zesto and sold the Chinook. A few months later I sold the Zesto and bought a Steelhead which I still own.