I've had several full function Cats and while their phono section is quite nice for MM's and higher output MC's, anything less than around .5mv and you can forget it. I ran an Ultimate II with Klyne 7PX3.5 phono for a few years and loved that combination.
I'm currently running an Atma-Sphere MP-1 Mk3 w/phono and have to agree with what Atmasphere said regarding cables and separates. My system took a gigantic leap forward when I made the change. I was a bit skeptical about having enough gain to properly drive my .03mv XV-1s but Ralph assured me I'd be happy with the set-up and that turned out to be an understatement.
The MP-1 also allows for easy cartridge loading without having to remove the top; no soldering or DIP switches to mess with either. A couple threaded loading terminals on the rear panel above the phono inputs make for fast and secure attachment of any type of resistor you may care to audition.
A final thought, the three preamps you mention under consideration are all solid state. Before you pull the trigger you may want to audition a couple good tube units for comparison.
Having owned my fair share of SS gear in years past then moving on to tubes, I'd never go back; amps or preamp. I'd be surprised if you don't find tubes to flesh out images better offering up a more 3-dimensional and believable soundstage. Just another opinion from the peanut gallery!
