"The new EVO 100 phono stage does feature point-to-point wiring, ceramic tube sockets, Nichicon and DuRoch capacitors, and gold-plated connectors. With that said, using 6922 tubes to increase MC gain in lieu of Lundahl SUT is something to ponder."

wescoman-

Evo 100 in my setup for 6 months. I don’t know of a comparable model-all tube dual mono under $4K? I was lucky to find an Ebay listing and negotiate a smokin deal-40% off MSRP. 

Circuit design/implementation are what legit audio tech heads seem to agree with.

The "boutique" component thing is just another subjective tweaky audio DIY excercise, like tube rolling?

I did replace the 6922’s with NOS and it doe’s seem to nudge the EVO 100 to more greatness.

Tube MC gain does create additional hiss. The PL however, is quiet at "reasonable levels" to my ears. Noticeably quieter than the 10+ year old all tube unit it replaced.

My most recent experiences of a Phono Cartridge Signal Path is one where Solid Copper Low Eddy RCA Connectors are use on both Cable and Chassis, along with a PC Triple C Wire used through out the signal path after the Carts Lead Out Pins.

This is subjective as an evaluation as already referred to, but in my case has been the most revelatory experience had in many many years in relation to assessing a Phono Performance. The experience has proved to be very cost effective for its capability to easily match an impression recollected through discovering an Audio Device capable of transforming a presentation to the point it is wanted to be kept in service in a system.

I would suggest the exchanging parts and adopting a continuous wire type in the Signal Path, could be a method that falls into the area of being Boutique as a selection.   

+ 1 pindac’s observation re: the simplicity of adding low eddy solid copper (or silver!) RCA chassis sockets and cable plugs to give notably greater clarity, openness and purity of sound. (I use ETI silver and gold in different positions in the system with notably satisfying results. Of course there are other producers too. I recommend NOT mixing manufacturers of sockets and plugs. I encountered a potentially catastrophic grounding issue with WBT sockets and ETI plugs ).

You might like to web search "Abbas Audio RIAA Tube Preamplifier EF86 / EL84" and also read his "Philosophy" page. I have one of his DACs, two of his phono stages, and have commissioned a third. There is a cadre of highly satisfied customers around the world. Good luck with your search.

Abbas shares similar origins and design intentions, that are similar to both my own DAC and Phonostage.

Careful selection of Parts, where as the outcome there is a truthfulness brought to mind when heard working within the circuit and closeness of the match for parts is the goal for the designs.  

Either of these being experienced in use by myself or others who have heard them in a variety of systems are always making it known of the good impression that has been made.  

I appreciate the continued interest in the topic.  Many great ideas and perspectives.  Having done some additional research, I am intrigued by the Greek-designed Lab12 Melto2 tube phono stage.  The circuit design/PCB layout and accompanying components appear impressive.  If anyone has experience using this equipment, please share your thoughts.  There have been many resales over the past year - not sure if that denotes a pattern/trend or simply individuals testing new products and moving on to other priorities.