They're all important but Mike is right, the phono stage is sort of a first among equals. Relative to what you have the table, arm and cart are good enough that you would probably be shocked to hear how much better they are through a good phono stage.
As far as preamps go, any time and every time value and budget comes up the answer is a good tube integrated amp. You will get far more sound quality for your money than with separates. That is the most budget friendly step up.
Finally, most important of all is what you want from your system. I know what I want, and so I know tubes and turntables are the way to go. I know to strongly consider Benz and Koetsu while never wasting a moments thought on AT, Lyra, etc I just don't want hyper I want music. But if you want your table to sound like digital then solid state and Naim with AT will get you a lot closer than tubes and Benz. Whatever it is, know that about yourself and be realistic is the winning combination.
As far as preamps go, any time and every time value and budget comes up the answer is a good tube integrated amp. You will get far more sound quality for your money than with separates. That is the most budget friendly step up.
Finally, most important of all is what you want from your system. I know what I want, and so I know tubes and turntables are the way to go. I know to strongly consider Benz and Koetsu while never wasting a moments thought on AT, Lyra, etc I just don't want hyper I want music. But if you want your table to sound like digital then solid state and Naim with AT will get you a lot closer than tubes and Benz. Whatever it is, know that about yourself and be realistic is the winning combination.