I'm speaking from experience and don't really care about theory or numbers. My Atmasphere MA-1's were not doing a good job of controlling the lower frequencies of my Aerial 10t's. They sound flabby. With autoformers the bass dramatically thighten up and allowed for a more linear presentation without a loss of sound stage. I already owned the 10t's when I bought the Atmasphere amp and preamp so I had to do something to solve the mismatch. In my case it worked very well but I must add the cavet that I'm in the process of setting but my brand new Merlins which should be a much better match to the OTL's. Autoformers are only suitable for certain very specific situations. If all works well with the Merlin's my autoformers will be for sale as the 10t's are headed for the Man Cave and will be driven by a Bryston amp. No autoformers necessary.
One more time: autoformers?
Not sure if this OP belongs in cables, speakers, or amps. Since I listed cables first -- it's cables. There are already some old threads which touch on the use of autoformers. Seems like most of the threads come up in the context of OTL and SET amps.
My Qs are: What are benefits and downsides to using autoformers? How does one know if an autoformer would be a good match for his/her rig?
As with most things in life, I suspect that autoformers must have downsides. Otherwise, everyone would use them. Open and intellectually honest responses are welcome.
Thanks?
My Qs are: What are benefits and downsides to using autoformers? How does one know if an autoformer would be a good match for his/her rig?
As with most things in life, I suspect that autoformers must have downsides. Otherwise, everyone would use them. Open and intellectually honest responses are welcome.
Thanks?