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Benefits of LO MC vs. using step up transformers.

Sorry if this seems like a novice question, but I've read conflicting opinions on the benefits of low output MC cartridges versus using a step up transformer. My old phono stage only had 56 db of gain, so this was not really an issue. My new stage has up to 79 db of gain using the internal step up transformers.

Now I've never owned any cartridge with less than 0.5mV output. I'm currently using a Lyra Helikon. I've heard many folks claim that the lower output versions (Helikon SL) of various cartridges sound better, and are more resolving. I've also read from those that claim that no step up transformer is the best step up transformer.

So for all of you vinyl experts, my question is: Is it better to run the super low output MC through the step up transformer, or the medium output MC with no step up?
Will it be a case by case scenerio? No clear cut answer?

I know I could just buy one and find out for myself, but I'd like a little feedback before I just buy another cartridge. They can get pretty pricey.

TIA,
John
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Showing 5 responses by jmcgrogan2

jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2 OP
6,346 posts
 
Nsgarch, thanks for the detailed response.
That was my initial impression, but I haven't played up at the Titan/Temper/VDH level yet.

So it seems that there is no reason to go after a Helikon SL now, even though my new phono stage is capable with it's built in transformers. I'm currently using my standard Helikon w/o the step-up transformers engaged, which gives me 59 db of gain instead of the 79 db. This is plenty of gain for this cartridge.

Thanks again,

John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2 OP
6,346 posts
 
Hi Paul,

Thanks for the reply. The phono stage I'm now using is a BAT VK-P10SE w/Super-Pak. It does have internal 20db step-up transformers, which would be what I would use. I have no desire to go out and spend more on specialty step up transformers, as trying a low output cartridge doesn't interest me that much. I'm not sure if there is anything good/bad about the internal step-ups in the BAT, as I haven't used them yet anyway.

FWIW, it seems like there is no real answer. I also posted this question on VA and got similar responses. Some prefer the lower output MC run through a step up, some prefer a higher output MC with no step up. So it seems like a personal choice option, where one will just have to try for one's self. Like asking which is better silver or copper cable, no?

Thanks again,

John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2 OP
6,346 posts
 
Thanks for the information Paul. I have to admit, I've never even heard of a reverse RIAA circuit before, or knew that step ups required so much burn in attention.
That was very helpful, thanks again.

Cheers,
John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2 OP
6,346 posts
 
George_a, thanks for the reply. I bought the Granite Audio MC phono burn in cd, and I'm extrememly impressed! This disc made an incredible improvement on my new phono stage. It now sounds terrific! Thanks again.

John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2 OP
6,346 posts
 
Hi Dan,

The phono stage arrived about 4 weeks before the cartridge. My initial impression upon hearing the new phono stage was it was a nice improvement, great bass, but I was slightly disappointed overall, considering how much $$$ I spent. Then I got the ZYX, and listened for one day. It was a nice improvement again, solid, but not stunning. Then the Granite cd arrived.

Then I shut the analog rig down for 2 days to burn in with the Granite cd. The next listening session was stunning. The midrange is full, and palpable. The soundstage is spooky in it's realism. It extends far to the sides and behind my speakers. I'm still burning the stage, as it's running 24/7. When I stop listening, I switch the Granite cd back in for more burn time. I can't imagine it getting much better, but time will tell.

The only concern that I have is running up hours on my NOS Amperex tubes. Maybe I should throw in some Sovteks for the next week or so as I continue to run the tubes 24/7.

I'm sold on the Granite Audio cd though.

John
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