Best SUT For Van Den Hul Crimson Stradivarius cartridge

Before you invest in another line stage, you need to be sure that it has more gain than your present line stage. I would suggest at least 3db or 6db more gain, and then you could do away with any SUT. I would not go with the McIntosh, but that’s just an opinion. I also notice that Ypsilon  makes a SUT with a step up ratio of five, the MC5. That would be another good solution to your problem, if you can get a trade-in on your MC 26. I already mentioned the MC10.

I just had an idea I should have had at the outset.  You might consider consulting Dave Slagle of EMIA.  Dave is the man when it comes to SUTs and their design and build.  He can tell you what you need, or if you need it, and then make it for you. Be sure to tell him the whole story, including all your equipment.  He is a nice guy and totally honest. (Needless to say, I have no financial relationship whatever with Dave or EMIA.)  His SUTs are as good as it gets.

Another source to consider is Bob’s Devices. I have his Blue Sky 10 SUT that is switchable between 1:5 or 1:10. https://www.bobsdevices.com/product-page/sky-cinemag

With a $30,000 MM phono stage like the Ypsilon, you want the best possible SUT, which might mean spending some bucks. Likewise if you go the route of a line stage with more gain than the Cary. Either way. I’ve heard the Ypsilon and it IS special. Dave Slagle can also be found at Intact Audio.

Has anyone compared Audionote ANS7 vs Head TX4 vs Audio Technica AT1000T vs EAR 100.

Thanks
Nanda