The 501 isn't really all that low output. I assume you refer to the MC version of the 834. I have both pieces, and used to hook the 834P direct to my amps using the 834P alps pot with somewhat ineffecient speakers and had no problems at all. If you are not referring to the MC version of the 834P, then you will probably have a problem even with a linestage. But for a $100 you could get the Lundahl stepup transformers.
