Thanks to all for your input.

I've decided to follow Jimbo's advice, so I'm selling my hifi and record collection to fund buying the Music first phono amp, it's the only sensible option

I think that when the time comes to look more seriously at making a purchase, I'd be silly not to try a Firebottle at home. And maybe get out and see what else I can have a listen to.

Adding a phono stage would mean my vinyl buying budget being redirected, so it's going to take a bit of thinking about.

Cheers

Rich.