phono preamp for Grado Master low output to C11

I don't have your cart, but I do have a Grado Sonata. My phono preamp is the TTVJ Hybrid. Although I'm using the MM inputs, it goes to a 10 watt tube amp. My Bellari didn't have enough gain, the Hybrid does. The MC inputs have even more gain and numerous adjustments. I really enjoy the sound. I believe Todd (the vinyl junkie) said he had one or two more available at about $550. It's worth checking into.

You're going to need something with 60+ db of gain, no transformer's, and a 47kohm input (or higher - but I do not know of any phono pre's that have a 100Kohm input imp.) So maybe the Jolida fits your budget? high quiet gain, adjustable Impedence (keep it @ 47Kohm or higher)...

Maybe a Blue Circle Phon-lo-Thingie? See if you can get Gilbert to make it with a 100kohm input impedence? I think 47kohm is standard. It punches WAY above it's price class!

"Do I really need to go crazy?" You may or may not go crazy, but be prepared to have an extended hunt. I have the same cartridge and like you, needed a new phono pre that could handle the low output. I assumed the specified gain and great reviews of the Sutherland Ph1-P would ensure good performance. Wrong. For whatever reason, even though the specified gain should have been more than adequate, it just was kind of polite and too laid back. It was also marginal as far as noise. After taking a big gulp, I bought the much more spendy RCM sensor prelude and THIS combo sprang to life. Grado woodies have a less than extroverted personality and it evidently takes some care in preamp matching to get a happy marriage.

I use a Sutherland PhD and it really shines. With the Grado Statement1 at 500ohms input.