Flipping record causing series of loud pops

Zerostat is perfect mechanical device to eliminate static.
I paid $60 for mine 15 years ago, but it was red, not blue. 

Use Furutech Destat 2 now the best.

Shouldn’t need a zerostat (or an AR15). Nor mute the whole system when touching the LP. This sounds like a grounding problem in the tube preamp but not the SS. Is there a ground lift switch on the tube phono stage? That would probably fix it (if it’s in the wrong position). Otherwise try to mitigate static buildup until you fix the phono stage

Wow. So nobody even knows the most basic things any more. Why am I not surprised?

Yup, volume DOWN. I always do, she set's at ZERO while I tinker.

No foul no harm...or  NO POPs either. Static discharge? Wow.. must be VARY dry with synthetic apparel and rugs. ADD a little moisture to the air.

Use a ground strap or touch a ground pad.. The ground lug on you phono stage or preamp will work just fine too.

Regards