they came up with 2 series on almost all their higher-end carts and so far i've compared only gliders and M series i.e. benz M.09 vs benz M2. i found no differences between these cartridges and so i believe not too much can be found b-n ruby and ruby2.
a good step-up transformer + your current phonostage might make more sence budgetwise. i use with my lyra helikon Ortofon T1000 with great results.
if you have to bring volume behind 12o'clock you basically amplifying the weak signal instead of attenuating a strong one which brings me to the conclusion that you need either different phono or step-up transformer.
