less components in the signal path is far more efficient than more components. for more components in the signal path you will also have to pay more obviously.
Having a sufficient cartridge output to directly feed the phonostage is the best.
Need some help with Analog,Just Learning
I have a Pro ject X2 with a new Sumiko Low Songbird.An Allnic 1202 phono pre.I need some advice,i am wondering if i need an SUT or change cartridge to better match my pre? I would think the allnic is capable better sound quality than i am getting.On the other end i have QLN P3,GamuT DI200,exemplar preamp,Innous zen,playback designs mpd 6, Thank you Jred