Phonostage w/volume options


I could use some opinions. I currently own an Art Audio Vinyl One with volume and Art Audio Jota Monoblocks. The combo sounds very good but I never had an opprtunity to hear any other phonostages in a similar configuration. I definately want to stick with a volume pot since 95% of my listening is vinyl. Should I put more weight behind synergy since the Vinyl One and Jota's are both from Art Audio? Or would, for example, a Steelhead raise the bar? Or an Aesthetix IO? Probably, but how about the cost/ratio? What other phonostages have volume? Should I leave well enough alone? Thanks.
richardmr
If you like the Art Audio piece, I would strongly suggest that you contact Kevin Carter of K&K Audio (kandkaudio.com) and look in to one of his phono stages fitted with a volume control. It will actually perform more on the order of an Art Audio Vinyl Reference - which makes sense since Kevin designed both the Vinyl One and the Vinyl Reference for Art Audio. You won't have the Art Audio faceplate, but by foregoing that, you will save yourself plenty of dough that can go into something else - like vinyl!
Email Kevin Carter of K&K Audio. His phono stage kit is the same as the Art Audio Vinyl Reference. You can get it with or w/o volume control. This is one fine sounding preamp. For an upcharge he will build it for you and customize it around your system if you like. You won't be disappointed.

Oz
Try the Tron Syren (tube line preamp and tube phono stage in one box). This is simply superb. See Ed Barkers review in 6 moons. After you hear it, you'll sell your Art Audio Vinyl One and buy one.