Step Up transformer

I use a Cinemag 1254 based SUT and I think the results are wonderful. Running it at 20:1 with an old Koetsu Black, lots of drive and loads of detail. I was having a hiss problem with my phono pre, lots of noise at 60dB max gain on my MS Phonomena. That's eliminated now in addition to fidelity gains, the Phonomena doing much better at 40dB min gain. My SUT has adjustable gain and can do 40:1, so maybe my next cartridge can be the AT-ART7 with just 0.12mV output. 

" I’ll never need to upgrade. "

If it's a different presentation you're curious about, then a vacuum  tube unit is what must hear in your setup.

The "better" models seem to sound more "organic" than an equivalent SS unit-IMO.

I’ve been wondering the same thing, whether to try a quality SUT.  My carts are Lyra Etna, VDH Van Cru, Aida Mammoth Gold, Koetsu Rosewood Sig Plat, Koetsu Coralstone D.  I have the VDH Grail SB transimpedence (current) phono stage to drop the noise floor, not sure if I have to purchase another phono stage (voltage) in order to try a SUT. I was thinking starting with a Koetsu SUT for my Koetsus. 

Yes, you definitely would need a conventional voltage driven phono with MM capability in order to insert a SUT into your system. But the VdH Grail is reputed to be superb, so I don’t know why you’d even consider it. On the other hand, I personally have never heard the Grail or your system.

I have the VDH Grail SB transimpedence (current) phono stage to drop the noise floor, not sure if I have to purchase another phono stage (voltage) in order to try a SUT.

a SUT will not work with the grail.  Of morbid curiosity, a step down transformer will work and in theory give you more output when feeding transimpedance stages.  Want to try a 40Ω denon 103 with your current stage?  Run it into a 4:1 step down transformer and you net 4X the current and a 3-4Ω  source impedance.

dave