Is Coincident Statement Phono pre-amp an overkill

Echoing Raul (and Nietzsche): you can't fly into flying. As someone with no more than one record, you understandably have more questions than answers. But, as Lewm suggested, the only way to get satisfactory answers is to listen to different components in your own system for a goodly amount of time.

IMO, given where you are and given that you don't have unlimited resources, the most salient consideration is resale value. You have 2 world class options; just pick the one that 'guarantees' you won't lose money. That way you can start the game and enjoy that record of yours, and rest assured that should you want to change it up you won't sink further into debt. If both meet that condition, flip a coin.

Essrand,
You actually heard the CAT preamp (good move) and were impressed. Will you have a chance to hear the Coincident Phono stage under similar conditions?

Most likely if you really liked the sound of the active pre-amp. It is a matter of personal preference whether you use an active pre-amp or not. There are many discussions related to this topic within the forum.

Also, as already pointed out, the CAT SL1 might not sound exactly the same in your setup.

I'm making the assumption that Essrand is buying predominantly for phono pefformance with the line stage a secondary consideration.

Hi Charles1dad.
Unfortunately there is no way for me to audition the Coincident without purchasing it.
And yes your assumption is right about phono perf being primary consideration.

Banquo, your words are full of wisdom. My LP collection is already rivaling my CD collection in quality, though far far less in quantity (25 LPs). Hence the anxiety to get the phono quick.

I am hoping that the Coincident Phono does not need a line stage to reach its maximum potential, given that I own a Coincident Amp.