Some stand alone phono preamps do not supply enough voltage to drive a power amp directly. If you go that route just make sure the phono preamp you choose will supply the voltage needed. BTW,it also depends on the output voltage of the cartridge you are using!
sub 2k phono stage
I am running a moving magnet into a sonic frontiers pre-1 P tube preamp - using the phono stage only via the tape outs into a passive preamp. The question I have is whether a newer stand alone phono stage such as those offered by rogue, etc- new or used - would best an older unit such as this. For those of you who are not familiar with it I believe it is on par with an audible illusions.