Phono Stage Gain - how does it impact sound?

@lewm I can’t find the input sensitivity for my Pass XP-12. It’s rated at 9.3db gain.
 

I’m running the Sutherland single ended into the XP-12 and XLRs from XP-12 to Pass XA-30.8 amp. There’s no compatibility issues between the Pass components. Speakers are Wilson Sabrina rated at 87db, 4ohm.

True I can crank the volume up on the preamp but that’s not the solution as I’m talking lack of bass slam at 86-90db listening levels. It’s not terrible by any means but I’m still wondering if the 60db from the Vibe is sufficient.

Good point on cartridge suspension, it hadn’t have a chance to settle yet.

Once I added a subwoofer (REL 528SE), the bass became exactly what I was looking for. Likely cannot live without it now. Would love to add a second subwoofer down the road. That would be my suggestion - REL is the best subwoofer (IMO) for integrating sound.

I use a PS Audio Stellar which can toggle gain settings between 60-72db. I definitely use gain settings to get more slam and bass. At max gain, the sound presentation is more forward, fuller, and has more bass. Of course most times these attributes become too much of a good thing, so I generally run phono at 66db.

@arize84 you’re confirming my suspicion. 

@rdk777 thanks! The bass is fine in my system with digital playback. My room is relatively small and the Sabrinas pressurize it well. Not a fan of subs in a 2ch system…