SL-1200GME Turntable

Thank you everyone for taking the time to reply. So far I've got the setup all ready to go but still waiting on a pair of new RCA cables to arrive and connect the phono to my preamp. 

I'll probably still be running hot considering the cart is a high output.... I recall with my earlier preamp VK-3ix that I could barely turn the volume knob before it was too loud. My hopes now are that the VK-33se currently in my system can deal better or at least allow lower sound. Its hopefully just part of programming it 

Elliot I'm not sure the TP2.5 that I have will give different cart load settings. VTL did released a TP2.5i version that might have that though.... Mine is the version before they even introduced a rumble switch.

OP

I found this about the TP 2.5, but it shows a Rumble switch, so yours might be different, however, you might have some internal settings you can adjust.

Perhaps look at this manual pages 8-12 (manualslib site pages 13-17), you can see and read them online or take screenshots and crop them if you do not want to download something from a site you are unfamiliar with.  

https://www.manualslib.com/manual/1278796/Vtl-Tp2-5.html?page=13#manual

I have the MP700 and had Hana ML. Tried both on my Purefidelity Harmony MK2 turntable with Origin Live Enterprise mk4 tone arm. My phono is Grimm PW1. The MP700 is a clear set up (no pun intended). Improvement in clarity and detail. Also it does a better job at pulling music into a space. Getting Etsuro Urishi Gin-Nezu this weekend. Interesting to see how much better it will be. 

Etsuro Urishi Gin-Nezu seems like a very high-value cartridge

tablejockey thanks for confirming that this phono is ready for a low output MC cart.

I ultimately decided to go with a Hana . 

This Technics is really Nice with the interchangeable head shell. Can’t wait to have a few to switch between upon going through the ole record collection.

Elliottbnewcombjr, I think perhaps 25-50 of my collection are mono records. My BAT preamp can switch to mono which is a real joy! Just earlier was listening to the Mobile Fidelity vanilla fudge mono cd 

Thanks billstevenson! Looks like we both have the same 3-Layered balanced platter with beautiful brass top.