dxp100,

Can,t be too specific in answering part of your questions, but I can tell what I am using.

Prior to purchasing a Torrii II, I was using a MusicHall MMF5.1 with stock tonearm and utilizing the Goldring 1042 MM cartridge (upgrade from the stock Goldring).  When I purchased the my amp, I also ordered the Decware phono stage (my old amp had a build in phono stage).

I can't speak highly enouph about this combo.  It has all the bass and power that I could ever hope for.  The bass, while not as deep as my previous amps, is of much better quality.  I can hear much more detail in the bass than I ever had previously.  Just a note, I also utilize Decwares HDT speakers.

Sorry that I can't help on specialized combos, or with other turntables other than what I have.  

I listen to vinyl playback probably for 70 to 80 percent of the time, listening to CD for the remainder.  I defiantely prefer my vinyl listening sessions to that of CD.  

Hope this helps.

bill f