VAC Signature Mk IIa Preamplifier with phono?

Yes. We did a shoot out of a VAC Ren Mk2 phono vs a Rhea Signature. All 5 agreed that the Rhea was not in the same league as the inboard VAC phono stage.

The phono board in my prior Renaissance III was awesome (though bypassing the internal MC SUT with a Bob's Devices 1131 was a big upgrade). Very quiet, with a beautifully balanced and detailed sound, slightly on the warm side of neutral. I'm not surprised the Sig IIa's phono reportedly kicks ass. Getting the MM stage in these units seems like a very good idea.

Thanks for the replies. Given the reputation and reviews of the Rhea sig it surprises me that you all felt it was such a weak performer. I think Robert Harley of TAS uses it in his reference system?

Well, if RH uses it as his reference, he clearly has never heard Nick Doshi's phono stages, which are a step up even from the VAC. Maybe it's a synergy or rather lack thereof w ZYX carts, but even the owner of the Rhea was amazed at the difference. We compared the Rhea, VAC, a ZYX Artisan, Doshi, and Manley Steelhead. This was several years ago so I can't say what the specific differences were, but there was no question that the Doshi was the best, the VAC just a touch behind, and the Manley and ZYX a touch behind the VAC. It might not be fair to say the Rhea was embarrassed, but it was definitely outclassed.