2. analog
  3. 1217715861

does cartridge output level affect surface noise?

I have a dartzeel phone preamplifier that requires the phono cartridge to be between .3mv and 1mv.

I am currently using the benz low output mc micro ace which is .4mv.

Benz also makes a .8mv medium output micro ace.

I love the sound of the cartridge but wonder if the medium output cartridge all else being equal (with the amp, cartridge alignment, turntable (technics mlk5g), tonearm, and isolation) would be more or the same or less sensitive to surface noise.

thanks

michael
radioheadokplayer

Showing 1 response by mechans

mechans
3,048 posts
 
Less sensitive, the low output MCs are noted for their ability to pick up fine detail.
However this is of minor signicance compared with the amplification of your Phono Stage. I use an out of control high--- way too high-- gain in the phono section of my ARC SP6B followed by a very similiar circuit in the line stage. Every mote of dust sounds like a cannon shot.
Sorry I cannot report any findings of an a vs B comparison.
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