I am not up on Spectral so help me out here. Is the "Mythical" phono stage you mention something that Spectral claims to be in the pipeline but has somehow never seen the light of day or is it a hoped for audio pipe dream? Also, do you still have any Spectral gear to partner it with? It seems that the whole basis for the special "Spectral sound" revolves around having a pure bred Spectral system, so what might have once been mythic could be reduced to also ran if the pedigree of the partnering gear is diluted, which in your case, I understand it now is.
Spectral Owners, Are you staying Spectral Loyal or leaving the brand behind?
Spectral requires you to use a Spectral preamp and MIT cabling. I followed this path for 20 years. Some have used other equipment, Preamps, cabling etc. I found that Spectral would Not, Play well with Others. I waited 6 months for a 30SV preamp. It was "Magical". I ordered a pair of DMA 400s. The next day, the 30SV stopped playing well with my Manley Steelhead. Then my Pass XOno. I tried everything Alan Goodwin recommended, including an expedited trip to the factory. After 2 months, I gave up. Sent 30SV back for full refund, cancelled order for DMA 400s. Bought Pass Lab electronics. System is Happy and so am I. I still miss the 30SV. I am waiting for the "Mythical" Spectral dedicated Phono stage for 12-13 years now. I am a vinyl guy. I have heard the Spectral CDPs. They are wonderful in a Spectral system. But I am a vinyl guy. I am certain if the dedicated phonostage is ever finished, it too will be an awesome piece of equipment. What are loyal Spectral owners doing?