with SME309: Dyna 10X4, Clearaudio Aurum or what?

What's your TT?

Benz phonos have been set up for 22k so whereever your gain is enough in your phono the impedance isn't. If impedance on Rotel isn't ajdustable you can simply re-solder stock resistor for the appropriate value.

Please provide an info what cartridge you're currently using and than we'll think about proper cartridge upgrade.

As to Benz Glider you'll probably have to change a phono as well since Benz Glider can do much more than your current phono. So this "much more" will be missed and part of your upgrade funds will be wasted.

Now I can speak another language:

There are many people that visited this webpage and didn't regret. There are used prices on brand-spanking-new analogue and other audio equipment on www.stoneaudio.co.uk. Even including the cost of shipping you still get it 25...30% cheaper than you would've bought it here. The only problem that malfunctioned unit you will have to send back to England since the warranties here are void on the equipment acquired overseas.

There 2 phonos that you can afford Trichord Dino or EAR 834P
Mate it with Benz Glider or Dynavector 20XL and no digital combo or box will ever beat that. To me EAR 834P makes more sence than Dino since you loos literally nothing but you'll have to stretch another $100(consider selling Rotel for $100 and adding $500 and you'll get EAR 834P)

Dyna 20Xl is a-bit cheaper than Glider fast, revealing and dynamic -- an ideal cartridge for heavy metal and rock-n-roll. Benz Glider is extreamly soft and musical with deep soundstage and imaging. A nice one for chamber, jazz and soffisticated electronic music.