I don't use MC on a Chinook but you could start with these questions: What gain setting are you using now? I believe it does from 45dB to 65dB gain. If you are using max gain now, how much volume are you using to get where you need to be etc?
Manley Chinook with (very) low output MC ZYX?
I currently have a Manley Chinook SE (UA Philips tubes), and I'm really enjoying it! I use it with an ART9, but have been curious about the ZYX sound. I have an opportunity to get a good deal on a ZYX R1000 AIRY 3X/SB (0.24mV). Which is slightly less than half the output of my ART9. Can I expect good noise performance? How about overall performance?