Are MC step-up transformers better?

I am currently looking to replace my current Naim Prefix phon stage with something else. I ws scouring my old "Listener" mags. and came accross Art Dudley's use of the Audio NOte MC step-up transformer, AN-S2. He swears by the use of of step-up transformer into a low gain phono stage versus adirectly into a high gain phono stage.
Has anyone any similair experience? Is it a better way to go?
Thanks