Stand out phono stages

Just to throw a curveball into this discussion, how about the top-of-the-line Soundsmith's Strain Gauge Phono Cartridge and Preamplifier System?

$12k(SG-610) and only works with one cartridge (their own), but who cares if the performance is superb.

Anyone have experience?

The reason I ask is because the Zanden pair and the Aesthetix pair are on my current shortlist. Of the four pieces in question I have only heard the Callisto in my system. From that and from what I've read, I am merely making assumptions about the Io.
As for the Zanden, I am going by how good their DAC sounds and by what I've read.
Since: the Callisto is the best linestage that I've heard so far within my system;
I can get the Aesthetix gear at an attractive price;
and I am not likely to hear either of the Zanden pieces in my system;
I'm probably going to end up with the Aesthetix.

I went down this path awhile ago and came upon the EE Minimax Phono which I think is excellent and worth checking out.

Exlibris - have you ever considered a CAT Legend with built in phono stage?

I'd like a little more harmonic richness than what the CAT products offer.