You need additional gain, so you have three options: 1/ add a step-up transformer, 2/ add an active pre-preamplifier, 3/ get a preamp with a MC input with the two gain stages you need internally cascaded.
Loading requirements are different for SUT and for active amplification, since the cartridge doesn't see a simple resistor the same electrically, across the audio bandwidth, as a transformer. I generally agree that loading the DL-S1 somewhat higher than Denon recommends will be your preference but there's a lot of latitude for experimentation between 40-1000 ohms.
I have both active and Xformer step-ups in my various phono systems. I don't even slightly agree that the cartridge's full potential can't be extracted via SUT, but it is a matter of getting the right one. Denon's own transformers aren't best for this. The Cinemag (blue) SUT that Bob's Devices sells, and the EAR MC3 or MC4 do the job well, at disparate price points. As for a quiet, stable, revelatory companion active phono stage that has the gain you need, I can recommend the Jasmine LP2.0 (70db total gain), and the Bel Canto Phono3 or the older Phono1. All three are solid state and I know personally they mate well with the DL-S1 and sound good.
Phil
Loading requirements are different for SUT and for active amplification, since the cartridge doesn't see a simple resistor the same electrically, across the audio bandwidth, as a transformer. I generally agree that loading the DL-S1 somewhat higher than Denon recommends will be your preference but there's a lot of latitude for experimentation between 40-1000 ohms.
I have both active and Xformer step-ups in my various phono systems. I don't even slightly agree that the cartridge's full potential can't be extracted via SUT, but it is a matter of getting the right one. Denon's own transformers aren't best for this. The Cinemag (blue) SUT that Bob's Devices sells, and the EAR MC3 or MC4 do the job well, at disparate price points. As for a quiet, stable, revelatory companion active phono stage that has the gain you need, I can recommend the Jasmine LP2.0 (70db total gain), and the Bel Canto Phono3 or the older Phono1. All three are solid state and I know personally they mate well with the DL-S1 and sound good.
Phil
