End Game Phono Preamp (tube)

UPDATE: I've identified clearly what I seek if I were to move on from the Hagerman (which I now believe I'm keen to do): Greater clarity. Cleaner imaging. Less low mid emphasis + somewhat tubby bass. In short - resolution. With better depth. If any aspect of soundstage that can be improved upon I'm all for it. Now what say community? (This discussion has been fantastic for me so thank you - hopefully it'll also provide insight for other researchers). I'll modify my initial position to now also ask: OK if I just say F-it and went for a ALLNIC H-7000 is that the right move? 

The Allnic H-7000 should be under consideration.  I would also look at the Audio Note M6 RIAA.  The top end Zanden is higher than your range, but easily in your range used.  

The ALLNIC H-7000 is that the right move? 

Yes, yes, yes, if this is the model that generates your curiosity. It should become the Top of the List as the model to be given a demo of. Keep your money in your coffer until a Phon' is experienced in use that compels you to separate with your money.

Talk and written words are not cutting it, when it comes to a Phon' selection. 

Who? Can guide you to what the statement made means to your own unique personal preference.

"Cleaner imaging. Less low mid emphasis + somewhat tubby bass. In short - resolution. With better depth. If any aspect of soundstage that can be improved upon I'm all for it. "

Cleaner imaging. Less low mid emphasis + somewhat tubby bass. In short - resolution. With better depth. If any aspect of soundstage that can be improved upon I’m all for it.
 

You just described my Whest PS.30 RDT SE. The only aspects you missed is the vanishingly low noise floor and virtually no surface noise.
And it’s a solid state unit!

@ericba the Modwright PH9.0 XT, at least in MC, is hybrid phono amp using a built in jfet headamp. a properly matched SUT beats a jfet or opamp headamp any day.