As far as gain in reference to phono cartridges, a low output MC will require more gain from the phono amplifier so that when the signal reaches the line stage you don't have to turn up the line stage volume control an excessive amount. In that instance, selecting a higher gain at the phono amp reduces the resistance to the signal and hence a music signal of higher level going to the line stage or preamp.
In your case, based on what you said about the loudness of CD versus phono playback, you should select a higher gain setting on your phono stage to help equalize the overall volume level of both sources. You may also benefit sound quality-wise as less resistance is less deleterious to the signal.
Hope this helps.
In your case, based on what you said about the loudness of CD versus phono playback, you should select a higher gain setting on your phono stage to help equalize the overall volume level of both sources. You may also benefit sound quality-wise as less resistance is less deleterious to the signal.
Hope this helps.