Its so true. The phono stage is possibly the best example of a synergistic machine, in audio terms. It really represents the "gate" for a vinyl lover. As you've shown us John, the cart is nothing without the assistance of proper processing.

It wasn't too long ago I took my Technics table in to audition the newest Pro-Ject Tube Box. Talk about dissapointment. The Tube Box was amazing, my table on the other hand, wasn't. I could hear the Tube Box mocking me underneath the music.

"Hahahaha, is this all you have? Let me show you how low your table's fidelity is..."

I left that audition completely deflated. It's great to see that you have found the right combination John. I'm left wondering, has this improvement brought back any excitement regarding your table? I know you've been looking around, romancing the idea. Sounds like this might be the shot in the arm your Rega needed.

Also, do you find it discriminates against your older/worn LP's? Or is it able to smooth out those problems? I was thinking about an Ortofon X1 a while back, but went with the 2M instead.