Keep C52 and add external phono stage or upgrade to C12000 and use internal phono stage?

[skinnyfla]

.... as the title says, I am considering these two options. I still really really love the sound of the C52 and have no complaints whatsoever... but I am wondering what will give me the biggest improvement in vinyl playback (strictly looking for analog qualities). I would either spend around 10k (max) and add a dedicated phono to the C52 or take the money and upgrade fro c52 to c12000.

Any thoughts?

 

[A-Line]

I like & use McIntosh for amplification for my 2 setups, MC2102 tube amp for digital and MA6500 solid state integrated amp for analog.
I like the current production C22 MK V and would probably get that and mate it with the new MC3500 MKII mono amps if I building a new system then add a separate solid state phono stage.

The C52 is not a current production preamp. The production ended in 2019.
If you need a DAC then there's a advantage vs the C12000 which has no DAC.

The C12000 is a classic preamp with provisions for both MM & MC pickups but has no DAC.
You also have the option to use solid state or tube outputs. I personally like solid state for analog and tubes for digital. The phono section of the C12000 is quite good according to those that own this preamp. I use a EAR Yoshino 324 solid state phono stage which I know is better than the phono section of the current incarnation of the C22(C22 MK V).

If your only options are either a solid state C52 vs C12000 with options for either solid state or tubes I would strongly suggest the C12000. If you need to tone controls the C52 will serve that purpose whereas the C12000 doesn't have any tone control options.

Either way you'll need a reference level turntable to realize the full potential from analog.

Just my opinions.