It's unlikely that you will get maximum performance from your 17D3 (I own one, too) with 53 dB gain. Dynamics and signal-to-noise will suffer. I use Dynavector's P-75 Mk. II phono preamp in its PE mode and the synergy with the 17D3 is unbeatable for the money. Dead quiet, all the gain you need.
Dynavector Karat 17D3---minimum gain needed?
I've got my eye on a used Monolithic Sound PS-1 phono preamp, and I'm wondering if the maximum gain this unit produces (53 dB) is sufficient for my Dynavector Karat 17D3 cartridge, which is a low-output MC which kicks out only 0.3mV. Dynavector's literature states this cart needs a phono stage with at least 60 dB of gain, but I'm wondering if I can reasonably get away with less. Or if I'm possibly already getting away with less---I'm currently using an old PS Audio Phonolink from the mid 90's with no problem. It's switchable between MM / MC, but has no provision for setting gain, although it does let you set resistance. I don't have the users manual so I don't know how much gain it applies in MC mode, but I've noticed that 47dB seems to be a standard fixed gain on many phono preamps out there. So, what do the moving coil cartridge experts out there have to say? Thanks, Will Herrera