CAT SL1 - is there enough GAIN using 0.4mV mc??

Well, my experience with an SL-1 MK2, with a Benz Glider L2 was that there was plenty of gain. However, I did not have the proper loading plugs, so I cannot evaluate the sound.

I'm using a Shelter 501 II with a CAT SL1 Mark III loaded with the 100 ohm plugs, with PLENTY of gain! In fact, I keep the volume on my Berning amp around 2:00-3:00, instead of all the way up, because if I leave it up there's too much gain to get sufficient low volume control via the pre. I'd be curious to hear what difference I get using a step-up vs. current setup, but it really doesn't seem necessary. Must admit that some of the previous posts surprise me, especially Bombaywalla's comment on lack of bass. In my room bass performance measures well. I certainly don't doubt his experience, as Bombaywalla has been a helpful & knowledgeable friend, but my rig certainly has plenty of gain w/o noise. Cheers,
Spencer

I am using a Koetsu Urushi wiht my CAT Ultimate pre with more than ample gain as the cart is .50mv....the cat pre-amps are absolutely some of the best ive heard!

It might depend a little on what amp you intend to use with the CAT but in my system a step-up is needed to bring out the best in the 0.6 mV Koetsus. You might not know what you're missing until you try one.

WOW...the vote is pretty much EVEN for my query. i appreciate ALL your responses and will TRY it without a step-up and post my results. now...who wants to sell their CAT??