[usp1]

So, you're running a buffer sans line stage.  Great if you can get away with it, but most systems need the 8 to 20dB of line stage gain.  I used to use a passive with a 0.2mV cart and 67dB of gain from my phono stage.  Still, I had a small listening room and efficient speakers.  With that same set-up in the larger room it's in now, no way.   Finding a decent line stage is a problem.  They all suck, unless you spend a million dollars.  If you like tubes, a Herron might be the ticket.  I always like Spectral for transistors.  I have a new one on the way now.  It's a JC-2 clone  - uses matched FETs.  It doesn't have all the controls like balance, that degrade the sound.  I'm trying not to get my hopes up.  LOL
neo

So would it make sense to run a relatively low output MM cartridge through a MC phono pre and avoid gain in the preamp entirely? Would that be too much gain?

[neobop]

Depends on the particular pieces.  You could easily overload the pre, and it's probably loaded at 100 ohms or so?  I guess it wouldn't hurt to try (use the 108).  Don't blow up your speakers.  You might be able to use one of those Benz with 1.0mV, expensive though.
neo

[usp1]

I will probably wait to try this for fear of blowing up either my speakers or pre-amp or amp. I was just curious to know if gain from phono-pre is likely to be better implemented than gain in a linestage.