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Active FETs vs. Step-up phono stage designs

I've noticed quite a few threads on A-gon discussing step-up transformers recently, and it got me thinking of the different applications in the phono stage design. I'm curious of the advantages and disadvantages of designs that employ step-up transformers vs. active designs with FETs, especially in tube preamps. Examples would be the new Manley Chinook vs. the Rogue Audio Ares with its custom Cinemag transformers, or the highly-regarded Andros, which also went the step-up route. I'm thinking of upgrading my solid stage phono preamp in the near future, and would like to hear your opinions (and I know we have a few designers posting regularly) regarding this subject.

actusreus

Showing 2 responses by atmasphere

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,569 posts
 
Hadn't really thought about that! We make two... it might be interesting to take a poll.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,569 posts
 
Dan_ed got that right...

Its been my experience that you don't want semiconductors at the input of a phono stage- they just don't have the same low level detail as an all-tube phono section.

I don't like transformers for the same reason- they limit bandwidth and loose detail.

But noise is also an issue. If I had to compromise (meaning that I can't use a phono section that is all-tube, is quiet enough yet has the needed gain), I think I would go with an SUT before using semiconductors. I guess I don't like the semiconductor sound (brighter due to emphasis of odd ordered harmonic distortion, lacking in tubes and SUTs).

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