Phono preamp or SUT for low output moving coil

I agree with most of what has been discussed, but would like to point out that there is no conflict between the use of an SUT and choosing a phono stage that has an accurate RIAA curve.  I guarantee that the the use of the two together can be serendipitous.

The question or the argument is how accurate is accurate enough?

Before this turns into another one of those senseless debate….the answer ultimately depends on what “accuracy” means to an individual and how it aligns with their listening priorities.

You will probably not be surprised by my answer.  Measurements get us to a certain point, they do not absolve us of the responsibility, or perhaps even better, the necessity to listen and decide what sounds we prefer.  It is usually the case, but not always, that someone who knows how to listen will prefer equipment that both measures well and reproduces accurately.  Of course taste comes into it too, hence looking at audio broadly there are horns, dipoles (electrostatic and planar) tubes, various solid state devices, Class A, AB, D, MM, MC, digital and analog this and that and all manner of other equipment variables.  All technologies can measure well, all have distinct sonic signatures, and of course all have their adherents.  So it is not possible for me to answer your question in a definitive manner.  Subjectively though, to your question how accurate is accurate enough? The answer is accurate enough to please the principle listening audience.

Bill, I was just re-stating the existing bone of contention. In essence I agree with your position. Also, I took the Devil’s Advocate position in stating the argument for pinpoint RIAA accuracy, which is in my mind at least the idea that since the medium does have so many other sources of distortion and since there are undoubtedly RIAA errors in pre-emphasis incorporated into some of the LPs we love, especially the older ones, one might take the position that it is desirable to use a phono stage with the least possible error in de-emphasis, so as to avoid possibly confounding errors in pre-emphasis encoded in LPs. This is just fun and games to talk about and in reality I pay no attention at all to this stuff when listening to music, just like you and most others. Likewise, I do not believe that cartridge loading is such a black and mysterious art.