Want new phono amp, what should I buy?

I've been very happy with Herron vtph-2 mm/mc phono preamp. A search on audiogon will show it has a cult following.

Don't sell the Artisan short, esp. w a ZYX cart. In a head to head comparison on a very high resolution analog rig (Teres 365, Triplanar, ZYX Universe, Doshi-Lectron, B&W 802Ds), the Artisan was substantially better than a Rhea Signature w NOS tubes. The phono stages we listened to that day, in pretty much unanimous agreement, were, in overall descending order of SQ, were Doshi-Alaap > Manley Steelhead = Artisan >> Rhea Signature. YMMV, but I'd try it at home before parting w long green on the Rhea. Never heard the others that have been mentioned.

My friend has that table and arm and uses a Pass phono and pre. I use the Basis Exclusive mentioned above. But all systems are different and we all hear differently so it would be hard to say which would sound best to you. I would also try to hear the Audia phono stage.

Swamp,
I think I was at that same demo in CT a couple of years ago with those phono stages you describe. I completely agree with your recollection about which sounded best. I would only echo what others have said that each system and personal taste varies, so the best way to be sure is to audition the options in one's own system if possible.

I have access to the Pass Labs XP-25 and an XP-15. I should have them sometime next week and should know more as soon as they are warmed up after a day of idling. I did order an XP-20 to replace my XP-10. Apparently those guys in at Pass Labs are very busy and I should see that XP 20 in mid August. I really appreciate the advice. I am going to try to listen to others mentioned in this thread.