Is it really worth it to get a phono stage over $10k

I actually owned a Sao Win table and strain gauge decades ago. It never worked. Sent it back to Sao with the preamp and he and it disappeared and never answered my calls... but that is another story. The Soundsmith Strain Gauge seem like a logical solution and a good value. I understand running it directly to the amp is the way to go. I could sell my preamp and cartridge. Big change. Is it really the way to go? Although I am most attracted to the Zesto. Love that sound and the look!

I have a Rogue Audio Ares Magnum phono stage with AMG turntable and AMG 12" turbo arm and Ortofon Cadenza Black cart (preamp and amp are Rogue RP7 and Stereo 100).  The sound is very very good-- call it an 8/10.  But, I want more articulation, more 3-D soundstage, more instrumental separation and more "natural" timbre of the instruments (I listen to classical and jazz). 

Immediately before Covid, I went to SoundSmith in Peeksklll NY and listened (using my LPs) to the strain gauge (SG-6 stylus) on their system which included VPI turntable, their SS electronics and their bookshelf speakers.  The sound can only be described as remarkable--  9/10.  Immense soundstage, superb separation of instruments, remarkable articulation and the instruments sound true.    There was a clarity, immediacy, and character that surpassed my candenza black system.

The strain gauge system does NOT require a phono amp (it comes with its own, so to speak) so the cost is in reality very reasonable.  The stylus/cantilever assembly are user replaceable and the costs is roughly $1000 for the top of the line SG-6 assembly.  So, ongoing costs are much less than MC or MM carts in the same league. Allegedly, the strain gauge also does not wear the vinyl as much as traditional carts which is also a consideration.  The SG6 also tracks better and "deeper" in the groove which helps with older LPs.

Yes, I have ordered my SG-200 with SG6 stylus (along with two replacement assemblies for future use).  Unfortunately for me, there is now a 6-8 week backlog, so it will be a while before I can enjoy the sound in my own home.  But, do consider this "alternative" to upgrading the phono amp.

Yes, most definitely. I have the Pass XP-27 and it out performs most listed here in the thread. 
It can only be justified, though, by how much vinyl you actually listen to.

It depends on how much you value you impart to listening to a diamond scrape on a cheap piece of plastic.

I would audition a Herron Audio VTPH-2A before spending more.