The Manley Steelhead is worth looking into. In addition to being a phono preamp it has a volume control and an input that will allow you to use an additional source (for example, if you also listen to digital). Me personally, I own an Atma-Sphere amp and am going in the direction of the MP-3 for many of the same reasons stated by Nsgarch. Mine is going to be slightly customized with a tape equalization circuit so I can run a signal from the tape head of my Otari through the preamp as well.
Of those on your list I am familiar with VAC having once owned the Avatar SE. While I found the phono section to be exceptional, I would have to assume the newer VAC designs would take it up a few notches. I bought my first tube system from Vu at Deja Vu Audio back in 1996 and even back then he was building amps and preamps for customers on a limited basis that were quite exceptional. They had a bit of a cult following then and apparently still do. Don't sell yourself short on what you already have. It may not have the bling but it can certainly sing with the rest on your list.
Of those on your list I am familiar with VAC having once owned the Avatar SE. While I found the phono section to be exceptional, I would have to assume the newer VAC designs would take it up a few notches. I bought my first tube system from Vu at Deja Vu Audio back in 1996 and even back then he was building amps and preamps for customers on a limited basis that were quite exceptional. They had a bit of a cult following then and apparently still do. Don't sell yourself short on what you already have. It may not have the bling but it can certainly sing with the rest on your list.