That last para. about 912 misconceptions was worth knowing, Tom, as I thought the phono trannies were essentially the same as the MC4 (because I've read the same). What bothers me a little is that you're taking on board a seemingly very sophisticated and versatile stage where one of the great benefits of the 912 is the inclusion of two recognisably excellent ones. Presumably you're using a line in on the 912.

After Superline and all the trimmings plus 552, I really cannot imagine another pre. which would (a) remove so many expensive boxes and cables, and (b) give such an uplift to so many sonic aspects on the three upper m/c cart's I've used with it. Even the 'umble VMS20E I've had knocking about for donkey's years was a revelation, even at 1g in a 14.5 g mass 12" tone-arm !