I would agree with multiple folks recommending waiting until all is received and broken in. Then start thinking about the phono stage.depending on how you feel about the sound at that time, I think then start looking for a phono stage. I think you could find a much better one. Pass is great at a lot of things, but my first thought would be Audio Research, Presto, Of others for a phono stage. Really high quality and natural sounding, consider a tubed phono stage. Phono stages are really important, as I think you know.
Phono preamp suggestions; can I improve upon my Aesthetix Rhea Sig ?
I have just ordered a new VPI HW-40 with a Van Den Hut Crimson Stradivarius cart. I'm now wondering if I need to upgrade my Rhea phono pre? Have already made improvements with NOS tubes. Have looked at the Pass XP-27. Also I see the Coincident Speaker Technology Statement was just awarded product of the year award from AS. Any thoughts?