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So when is a SUT really needed?

Hey,

So, I been in this audiophile world for about 6 or 7 years now, at least that is when I bought a bit more serious equipment. Before that I had some stuff but wasn't that serious about it.

Still consider myself a newbie but have gained much more knowledge about this hobby compared to before.

But there is one piece of equipment that I hear about all the time but didn't really take a look at it before.

I am referring to the Step Up Transformer.

Just recently I started to read more about it and watch YT videos on it.

I also googled the purpose but it's just technical jargon and I rather get feedback from real people and users.

So, my understanding is that a SUT is used to control a MC Cart and it would work between the TT and Phono Amp connecting to the MM inputs (is that correct)?

But if you already have a Phono Preamp with MC adjustments, do you still need a SUT or is it used more in the situation where you may only have a MM preamp and want to use MC Carts?

Also, are all SUT's passive equipment, meaning they do not utilize a power plug or are there some that do?

Would there be reasons to use a SUT if you already have a good phono preamp with all the same adjustment options?

Thanks

jay73
billstevenson
1,221 posts
 

Elliott, that is all quite true and correct and pretty accurately reflects the path that probably most of us followed.  The realization dawned on me, though, that following this path is not necessary.  The truth of the matter is that a good MM is good enough for all practical purposes.  Or a HOMI.  

elliottbnewcombjr
7,853 posts
 

Bill,

After a few years with two great sounding LOMC cartridges (you need to hear them for yourself), I also went back to MM, they sound terrific, excellent imaging resulting from both wide channel separation and especially tight channel balance of 0.5db.

Also a primary consideration is to get back to lighter tracking weights of 1.25 gm and I just acquired an OEM VN5xMR stylus to track my V15VxMR MM at 1.0 gm. Both my LOMC track at 2.0gm, not high, but our friend Mies taught us that 'less is more'.

billstevenson
1,221 posts
 

Elliott,

You are right.  I agree with you.  I have to not to try to be another catcher in the rye.

richardbrand's avatar
richardbrand
1,444 posts
 

@lewm 

What’s a “SUP”?

Longer explanation of SUT to follow when I get out of bed

It is a form of typo caused by insufficient sleep.  I meant SUT.  Get some more sleep - SUP is entirely my fault crying

nandric's avatar
nandric
4,099 posts
 

The reason is: the higher amplifiaction  by MC phono-pres the higher distortions.

The ''old Lukatschek'' just produced the ''younger brother'' of Ortofon MC2000

called  BENZ EBONY  TR (TR for transfomer; output 0,1mV imedance 1 Ohm)..

Do members of Audiogon pretend to know better?

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