The tube Phono stage is just OK because you will be using an MM amplification factor. The problem with tubes which BTW I have in almost every piece I use, is that tubes are noisier (or get noisy with age) than good SS is. So I would suggest that you use tubes in other parts of your system, the best being your power amp, IMHO not the pre.
I use the cartridge you like and agree that it is good. I use a Graham Slee Gram amp2SE As for the rest of your questions I leave to the Analog gurus.
I use the cartridge you like and agree that it is good. I use a Graham Slee Gram amp2SE As for the rest of your questions I leave to the Analog gurus.