Not only are those 2 very basic phono stages, probably with the same kind of chip based circuitry, but a 40dB MM stage (like the Consonance, and probably your Aria built-in) is going to be way underpowered for your Denon’s 1.6mV (this results in 0.16 V when a typical CD player outputs 2.0 V, a full 22 dB above the former), whereas a 60dB MC stage is going a bit too much for it (risking overload).
And though it’s an entry-level MC, which won’t garner too many fans here on audiogon for its plastic body alone, you are probably far from hearing that Denon 110 at optimal. The 110 is kind of an odd-man out for most phono stages, which typically cater either to higher output MMs or lower output MCs, and (importantly) often don’t offer 47K loading (recommended for your Denon) in MC mode. What you want, optimally, is low 50s dB gain at 47K.
Get a Hagerman Trumpet MC ($1100) and you will hear a difference! It can do 45, 55, 60, 64, or 68 dB. All loading settings available at all gains, including 47K.
And though it’s an entry-level MC, which won’t garner too many fans here on audiogon for its plastic body alone, you are probably far from hearing that Denon 110 at optimal. The 110 is kind of an odd-man out for most phono stages, which typically cater either to higher output MMs or lower output MCs, and (importantly) often don’t offer 47K loading (recommended for your Denon) in MC mode. What you want, optimally, is low 50s dB gain at 47K.
Get a Hagerman Trumpet MC ($1100) and you will hear a difference! It can do 45, 55, 60, 64, or 68 dB. All loading settings available at all gains, including 47K.