Hi,
Just thought I would add my 2 cents. I just went through what you are contemplating. Adding a stock Reduction and a turntable to my system has made more difference than ANYTHING else I have done. More than mikes iron, more than the Elrog 300b tubes (although I must say they sound amazing), more than the EML 300b mesh. By a huge margin.
Sounds like you are doing your research and receiving sound advice. I know you are going to enjoy your journey.
Pat McSween