Thoughts on phono stages; Audio Research PH 9 vs. the Ref 3?

I have a REF 2 SE phono > REF 5SE >
REF 80S … both my main carts are .4 ish MV and sound better w the high gain settings… however I also have a SUT and noise isn’t an issue w either.

imo HRS Nimbus or better isolation, and a damper block is well rewarded.‘I’ve heard both the 6se and Phono 3’at length but not a PH9.. interesting they think it sounds better but isn’t deserving of REF designation…, 

Yes,  That's what the dealer conveyed. Spoke w/ARC and they didn't quite confirm that.

The number one ARC dealer most years in USA is the VERY analog focused Randy Cooley at Optimal Enchantment in Santa Monica… I trust him vs someone trying to sell a PH-9 but hey I would love to be wrong…..