Small form factor, SS phono preamp recommendation.

@grislybutter I should have mentioned that I used to own a Rega Aria, a more pricey unit than the Fono MM and found that it had way too much self-generated noise. With a good MM cart, your phono-stage may be a little less critical so you really have many good options. The CA Alva Duo was great and I probably shouldn't have sold the one I had. The iFi Zen Phono with it's upgraded power supply is super great too. Well, we just sold Village Baker and I should take down that system.... thanks for checking it out! I bet your pastries are wonderful. I usually find that people who bake at home bring real passion and care to baking and often make sublime pastries and breads. 

@grislybutter Yes, the CA Audio Alva Duo is really quiet, resolving, and sounds great.

@rsf507 Good thought, I'll look into it again.. and @boothroyd good point, I have one in my Accuphase E-470 (secondary system)  and I should move it to my new E-5000 and really give it a good audition. @solypsa Intriguing option; are they available in the US? 

My new speakers will by the Borresen Z3's NOT the Z5's !

~Oran

@robelvick @lewm @gemoody and others.... Thanks for the insights. It probably does make the most sense to stick with the Accuphase phono card. It would be easy to spend a lot more and end up with more cords, more complexity, more chance for extraneous noise to get picked up, and with my cost restraints, no guarantee of better sound.

~Oran

@jorgjean , What do you like about the whest? What cart are you using it with? Music Direct has an open box PS.40RDT SE for sale right now and I’m intrigued by it.