Phono Input in the Musical Fidelity A5.5???

Don't get either one, go with the M3 Nuvista. There are 3 priced from $1995 to $2395. Better built and over 300 watts at 8 ohms in tests. It has a MM phono stage. All of these have decent phono stages but not equal to their power and line stages. I use a Dynavector 75 and Blue Circle 707 with my M3. The Dynavector is exceptional at it's price and if you can find one used it would be good with any of the amps.

No, you use a line level input [tuner, aux, etc.] If you wish to use the built in phono stage with a low output moving coil you use a step up transformer or Pre Preamp to raise the level of the signal for the moving magnet input. I bought my M3 used as well as the 2 pairs of speakers I am using most and my two subs. I am a small dealer and can get items at cost but I often choose to buy used for my own use. Some are nervous with this, if you are don't do it but I have done it for years. Yes, the M3 or Tri Vista would be in another class entirely from the 5.5. One of the best ways to buy HIFI is to buy top items from a previous generation of equipment, often the new ones are only marginally better if at all and the lemmings among us will rush to purchase the latest thing , dumping their old ones at a big loss. In speakers this is almost foolproof, in turntables also. Outside of actual physical abuse good equipment has a long life and many enthusiasts will change their gear before they have even got the best sound out of it.