Looking for help with a Benz SL low output cartridge

@dpm2340 

cartridge is 0.4 mV signal, 12 ohm coil, correct?

Gain settings: 40, 45, 50, 55 or 60 dB
Loading: 100, 200, 475, 1k or 47kOhms

have you changed the jumpers inside the unit to:

gain 60 db (max signal boost)

loading 100. (you could also try 200, but start with 100)

after those changes: NOT ENOUGH VOLUME?

"The LL2.1 is a direct replacement for the LL2. Aside from a few new parts and slight changes in the schematic, the most important modification, at least from my perspective, is the introduction of a switch-selectable 15dB gain attenuator. With this switch on, the gain drops from about 18dB to only 3dB."

double check the attenuator is not engaged, so you get the 18 db gain, not only 3 db

FYI…when I had the Vibe Mk2 with Hana ML which is identical to benz sl specs wise,  I complained about low gain. It didn’t feel like it was enough at 60db. The presentation lacked in drive and dynamics. 
Switching to 20/20 Mk2 addressed this issue. I know the overall gain of the system needs to be taken into account, but the Vibe behaves like it does. 
Adding a SUT might help but the point I was trying to make before with going down the phono stage upgrade path is probably the best approach in case of the Vibe. 

I’ll add that as nice as 20/20 is, the overall sound signature remains mellow, sweet and polite. Much better than the vibe. But if you’re looking for explosive dynamics and impact, probably worth exploring other options 

audphile, you were selling a Whest phono pre, then you weren't?

Have a look at the US Company TTVJ audio, they offer a shipped home loan of an SUT.
Cinemag have been the producer of the Transformers used on a Bob's Devices SUT. I use a Cinemag design SUT. For my needs, the Cinemag superseded all others I am familiar with.

If you could end up with Ron's Bob's Devices and the TTVJ audio SUT in conjunction, then the influence of the Transformer windings will become apparent.

The perception of a Rich Tone will become very obvious when short time usage durations are used with immediate exchanges between SUT's..