Considering Schiit equipment

Cardas RCA > XLR adapters will work just fine for you since you are "down converting" meaning it's not a balanced signal you are trying to preserve. I doubt you would notice any difference. Ya get what ya pay for vs Amazon stuff. Search out a Cardas dealer. Make sure you get the right configuration on the adapters. 

Thanks.  Yeah, it's the configuration part I know nothing about.

I did some further reading on Benchmark amps. Seems they're not the best for fit for older recordings, which I have a lot of. Too analytical I'm reading. 

Schiit seems to have been called out for QC problems. I wonder if that's been remedied?

And finally, in conclusion.....

I looked at a lot more products the last couple of days.

It seems everything was too much of a compromise in one way or another.  Not enough inputs, not enough power, incompatibility etc. So I figured I had to up the budget a little and continue the search.

I ended up buying a pair of Cambridge Audio Edge M monoblocks through Upscale Audio.  They had a decent price. For at least the time being, I'll use my Harmon Kardon Citation 25 preamplifier. It has a remote, tons of inputs, it's what I'm used to and it's compatible with the Cambridge M's. 

I really appreciate everyone's input here. I learned a few things along the way. 

Honestly, I would have been glad to get the Schiit gear if only it had more inputs on the preamplifier. I need 7 and something in my gut just says stay away from switchboxes and adapters.  I just don't know enough about them.

Thanks again everyone!

Congratulations with the new amps, Cambridge is a good company.