step up for mc

As an EE, my opinion is that transformers are the most logical choice. They convert impedance and voltage inherently which makes them perfectly suited for step up of small voltages. Transistors can do it too but aren't nearly as elegant a solution, either in terms of physics or design.

But I am not a vinyl guy so I haven't made any direct comparisons. It probably depends on everything anyway so I doubt you can get a clear answer to your question.

Arthur

Ok, three things.

1. I am talking about high quality transformers.

2. High quality transformers only act as filters at very very low frequencies, like <5Hz, which is a positive thing in stereos, and at very high frequencies which isn't a problem for music.

3. Every circuit component in the world has a bandpass characteristic. Nothing is perfect so nothing has infinite bandwidth in either direction.

As you and I have already said, it's all about implementation. But you can't deny the elegant simplicity with which a transformer gets the job done.

By the way Dan, how do you like your tube amp's transformers? ;)

Arthur