despite its low output, the Statement is not like a moving coil, and is incompatible with mc transformers such as those in the Steelhead. The PH3 and the Steelhead have almost enough gain (without engaging the mc transformers, in the case of the Steelhead) for the low ouptput Grados, but not quite, unless (I suppose) you have a really sensitive amp. Finding a good phono pre for the Grados is not easy. I would be interested to hear what people who have solved this issue are using.
My New Manely Steelhead
I just received my new audiogon Manley Steelhead preamp. I let it warm up and I checked the tubes to make sure they were seated properly. I put it into the rack and turned it on. Lights are always a good sign. I turn the knob to MM and 47K for my cartridge Grado The Statement. The only settings I know to change. I played it for a couple hours thinking this sounds dry analytical. It did not have any life. I switched from a ARC PH3 and I was missing the romance of the PH3. The Manley does top to bottom better but lifeless. I looked at the Manely thinking what am I going to do. Sell it, but I just bought it. Then I noticed the gain setting was on 65. I changed it to 55 and immediately the sound stage grows wider and the music comes alive. Wow I just wasted 2 hours. The PH3 is now going. What a great unit. I hope nobody else makes the same mistake.