3 Top Cartridges Picks

My picks would be :

Jan Allaerts MC1B
Koetsu Urushi

I am waiting for an Allaerts MC1B Mk II, and I am afraid my Audio Note II won't have enough gain for it. Any suggestions for a good stepup device (even a good phono stage that I could run through my aux input)?

The Bent Audio Mu step-up transformers are very good for $750.

The K&K Lundahl step-up trannys are a well-liked at $250.

Throwback
The MC1B Mk II has an output of 0.7mv, which is on the high side for an mc cart. Are you certain the AN II doesn't have enough gain?

CMK,
Sorry, I just saw your post. You're right: .7mv is on the high side, and it may work. I think I'd rather have a little more tube noise than introduce another component and interconnect into the equation if I don't need it.
Do you own the MC1B MkII? How do you like it? I heard it briefly at CES and ordered it based upon forum chatter.