Tube preamp with or without phono stage?


I’m looking to add a preamp to my two channel system. Currently I’m using an Audio Alchemy DDP-1 as the pre fed by a Simaudio Moon 110LP as the phonostage. My amp’s a Benchmark AHB-2 and speakers are Paradigm Persona 3F. The Personas and Benchmark are recent purchases and I’m rebuilding backwards. I’ve been targeting a clear, detailed, neutral and dimensional soundstage. Very low noise and distortion.

I’d now like to add a tube preamp and have a few questions. What are the pros and cons of the phonostage built into the pre vs as a separate? My amp only has balanced in’s but I can use an XLR to RCA adapter if necessary, are there any concerns with using the adapter? Finally, any recommendations up to about $3-5k with some flexibility?

Thanks
jszei
I also feel cables and vibration control make a difference so take that into consideration.
This is a pretty big argument for having the phono section built-in.
Mcintosh c-2500

Two phono stages MM and MC
Internal DAC
Multiple line level inputs

Outstanding warranty and customer service.

"New Old Stock" units are listed on this site in your price range and come with Manufacturers 3 year warranty. 

I purchased one not long ago and it's the best audio purchase I've made in years.  

@atmasphere do you work for Atma-Sphere or is it a naming coincidence?  If so, what's your take on whether there are any sound quality benefits to an integrated phonostage, all things being equal?
@atmasphere do you work for Atma-Sphere or is it a naming coincidence? 

LOL! @jszei, meet  Ralph Karsten of Atma-Sphere.
He has been a very valuable asset on these forums for many, many years now.

Ralph doesn't just work for Atma-Sphere, he IS Atma-Sphere!!

Cheers,
John
There is only one advantage of having a built-in phono and that is, it saves space, one less box. However if you are looking for the ultimate sound you will find a quality external phono head amp is the only way to go if you're serious about good sound! Here is another thing, if you are not using the internal phono preamp, do not remove the tubes from the circuit for safe keeping as this will damage the phono circuit.