I'm specifically asking about using them with SET amps that only have RCA/SE connections.
Atma-Sphere MP1 with single-ended inputs and outputs? Adapters OK?
I had the opportunity to hear an end-game system (for me) that was fronted by an Atma-Sphere MP1 preamp and their Novacrons. I was blown away by the overall sound, and am highly considering starting purchases toward that system for myself, but had the following questions I'm hoping someone could answer.
In short, the purchase path for me is likely going to last 18-36 months, given the costs of the various components and speakers, so I'm going to have to be living with "hybrid" systems for that time period while I spread the purchases out.
My current weakest link is my pre-amp (although it's not weak, but...). If I start with the MP1, both my source material (VPI Classic turntable) and amps (Thoress 845 SET monos) are single-ended. I'm sure I could get an appropriate balanced output for the VPI (I think?) and my DAC already has balanced out (which is my only other source), but what loss in sound quality will I experience adapting for singled ended RCA connections out from the MP-1 to my SET monos? My current set-up has short (1.5M) runs, so the length of cable won't be an issue for me in single-ended. But will using something like adapters or the tape outs on the MP1 negate any sonic benefits of the MP1 I might otherwise be getting for the time period I'll be using single-ended amps? BTW, I LOVE the Thoress 845 amps, so they will likely be the last part of the chain I will consider replacing, and I may choose to keep them in the end-game system depending on the synergy.
Thoughts or experience with the MP1 and single-ended output?
In short, the purchase path for me is likely going to last 18-36 months, given the costs of the various components and speakers, so I'm going to have to be living with "hybrid" systems for that time period while I spread the purchases out.
My current weakest link is my pre-amp (although it's not weak, but...). If I start with the MP1, both my source material (VPI Classic turntable) and amps (Thoress 845 SET monos) are single-ended. I'm sure I could get an appropriate balanced output for the VPI (I think?) and my DAC already has balanced out (which is my only other source), but what loss in sound quality will I experience adapting for singled ended RCA connections out from the MP-1 to my SET monos? My current set-up has short (1.5M) runs, so the length of cable won't be an issue for me in single-ended. But will using something like adapters or the tape outs on the MP1 negate any sonic benefits of the MP1 I might otherwise be getting for the time period I'll be using single-ended amps? BTW, I LOVE the Thoress 845 amps, so they will likely be the last part of the chain I will consider replacing, and I may choose to keep them in the end-game system depending on the synergy.
Thoughts or experience with the MP1 and single-ended output?
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- 37 posts total
You can use the adapters or have an XLR > RCA cable made. Another option are these which I use: http://http//www.jensen-transformers.com/product/pi-2xx/ |
First, I would contact Ralph at Atma-Sphere directly. He sometimes has demos/trades available. He sold me my equipment for a reasonable price. I always wanted to try tubes, but thanks to Ralph, I now have a killer system. Second, I would consider an MP-3, if cost is concern. I run my Vandy Treo's with the MA-1's and MP-3. I could not be happier. Bob |
Be careful before using XLR to RCA adapters on outputs! Most of them short the signal on XLR pin 3 to ground (XLR pin 1). Some equipment can tolerate that, but some cannot. See this thread for an example of a situation in which it could not be tolerated. Also, note that RCA outputs on the MP1 are described as "optional." Also, I would assume that the tape outputs you referred to are "ahead" of the volume control in the signal path, and therefore would not be suitable for connection to a power amplifier. The suggestions of contacting Ralph and considering the use of a Jensen transformer are good ones. And perhaps Ralph will respond in this thread when he returns to work tomorrow. Regards, -- Al |
- 37 posts total