The current ruby 2 is extremely low output - .3 mv. They also make a ruby h which is higher - .8 mv I think.
Not very many phono stages can handle that low of an output. I am using a pass labs phono ono with my ruby 2. It has 76 db of gain and I find that to be an appropriate amount. I still have to use middle position gain on my pass labs aleph P preamp. I know the aesthetix IO is supposed to be a very good tube unit for low output cartridges.
The benz lukaschek is another that is mentioned as a very good match - some very knowledgeble people think it's the best best. TAS reviewed the ruby 2 and the lukaschek. The felt the lukaschek was an excellent phono, but noted that the pass labs XONO and a herron phono brought out a few more details.
Not very many phono stages can handle that low of an output. I am using a pass labs phono ono with my ruby 2. It has 76 db of gain and I find that to be an appropriate amount. I still have to use middle position gain on my pass labs aleph P preamp. I know the aesthetix IO is supposed to be a very good tube unit for low output cartridges.
The benz lukaschek is another that is mentioned as a very good match - some very knowledgeble people think it's the best best. TAS reviewed the ruby 2 and the lukaschek. The felt the lukaschek was an excellent phono, but noted that the pass labs XONO and a herron phono brought out a few more details.