You can buy and try a Bellari MT-502 SUT ($499) and an AQ Silver Extreme IC ($90 from HCM). I use this combination! I prefer it over a high-gain phono stage.
Will Step Up Transformer Improve the Sound Quality?
I'm wondering whether a step-up transformer would improve my analog signal path. I have a VPI Prime Signature with a Dynavector 17D3 Karat cart. My phono stage is a Parasound JC3+. The rest of the path is a PS Audio BHK Signature Preamp and a Pass Labs X-150.8 amp into Spatial Audio M3 Turbo S speakers and dual REL S/3 SHO subwoofers using Audience cables. I am looking for advice as to whether adding a SUT would markedly improve the sound. I am also looking for recommendations as to which SUT's would work well in this system.
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Thank you for the great feedback. I did not perceive an issue with the sound of my system. I just wanted to get this forum's opinion on whether this was a worthwhile enhancement. mijostyn thanks for the other insights on my system. I am content with the bass but what is your advice on the REL's - is it a tweak or are you saying that the crossover issue is inherent with the REL's. |
SUTs have their own problems. They add distortions, though different from active stages. They can also pick up hum. This in addition to extra cables and connections mentioned above. They also must be matched properly to the cartridge, not only for gain but for primary impedance (load that the cartridge sees). I have a Supex cartridge and a matching sdt-722 transformer that sounded better than the active stage I had at the time, but the same transformer did not sound as good as the active stage with similarly spec'd Audioquest and Lyra cartridges. YMMV |
This MM/MC Phono seems very versatile https://www.ebay.com/itm/Pro-Ject-Tube-Box-DS-MM-MC-Tube-Phono-Preamplifier-Black/224349939634 think of it as an internal variable SUT |
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