Burn in Step up transformer with ipod.

If you turn the volume down to what a typical low output moving coil puts out it should work fine.

Anything around .2mv would be good. To much voltage will saturate the step up tranny.

I dont think i can get the output to be as low as .2mv. I estimate at low volume the ipod would be pumping out 5-10mv. I have just finished a 24hr burn in session using my ipod and to my relief, no damage. I cant say whether it has improved the sound or not atm. Going to burn it a few more days.

I hear of theories of burning/damage the coils in Step up transformers but putting a too high signal, but i never read of an actual case!! Is it just a myth?

How much voltage can these transformers take?

Not sure how you are estimating the output. The impedance reflected back to the I Pod would be dependent on the turns ratio and the input impedance of the phono preamps input.

The situation you want to avoid is saturating the input coils. The saturation level is dependent on a lot of factors but I have found a tranny that spec'd max 1 volt in.

If you do not have a sensitive digital multi meter to check the voltage I suggest you actually listen to it while playing the I pod. Because of the RIAA curve it will sound like the bass knob was turned all the way up and then some, with the opposite for the treble. However if it is not distorted you are good to go.

Line level signals are usually around 1 volt so probably not a big deal. However if the voltage is high enough you will saturate the the core of tranny. If done for extended periods you will eventually do damage to it.

Also, if your phono stage is on and you are feeding the tranny one volt I guarantee that you will severely overload the input. So hook up the tranny to the phono pre to "load" it but do not turn it on and risk damage.

"BWT, it is a myth that prolonged core saturation will damage a MC transformer"

How so? Transformers can only handle so much wattage before they saturate. Extended saturation causes heat issues. Heat issues cause problems. What am I missing?

IMO and experience, it is never a good idea to use anything far outside its intended design parameters.