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How much gain is needed in a Phono Preamp for a 0.2 to 0.3mv low output moving coil?

I have been out of audio for 25 years and am now getting back into getting a system. I have looked at Manley Chinook, Ear 834p, and Audio research 5, 6, 7 Phono preamps, after reading thru many or post on Audiogon. All have about 57db gain to 60 bd gain. I have been looking at getting either a Dynavector 10x5, Benz micro Silver, Ortofon Quintet Black, or a used Benz Ruby Z (if I can find the money). Is 57db enough gain for the cartridges. I would also welcome feedback on the Phono Preamp. I am leaning toward the ARC PH7 or Manley. Either would be around the same price. I would prefer to stay with tubes. The turntable is a VPI Prime. Any help or opinion would be greatly appreciated.
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Showing 1 response by atmasphere

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,564 posts
 
If the noise floor is low enough 57 db might be fine.

But the phono gain isn't the whole thing. The gain in the line section, the gain in the amp and finally the efficiency of the loudspeakers all make a difference!

So if you have 57 db, a passive volume control and 89db speaker it won't work in most cases. So you need to add up the gain in the electronics and see if that will give you enough sound pressure.
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