LordCloud,
Being as it was just announced, the probability that anyone other than a beta-tester would have any experience with this phono is slim to none. I have no idea how it would compare to the clearaudio. Since CIA offers a satisfaction period, go ahead and order one and you tell us how it compares. CIA seems to make some really good products, especially for the money. I assume that the phono will probably live up to this history. I did hear a few things during the beta-testing period that seemed to be quite positive.
Josh