The Messenger is a nice preamp. I don't know if I heard it to it's full potential, my amp may have not been a great match. In that price range, you may also consider a Shindo Massetto. It does fit your criteria of a built in phono stage. The Massetto also mates well with most solid state amps. I assume you may run SS with the Spire's. The Doshi also has a great following, but I unfortunately haven't heard it. I do know someone whose opinion I value, and he loves the Doshi.