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Active FETs vs. Step-up phono stage designs

I've noticed quite a few threads on A-gon discussing step-up transformers recently, and it got me thinking of the different applications in the phono stage design. I'm curious of the advantages and disadvantages of designs that employ step-up transformers vs. active designs with FETs, especially in tube preamps. Examples would be the new Manley Chinook vs. the Rogue Audio Ares with its custom Cinemag transformers, or the highly-regarded Andros, which also went the step-up route. I'm thinking of upgrading my solid stage phono preamp in the near future, and would like to hear your opinions (and I know we have a few designers posting regularly) regarding this subject.

actusreus

Showing 3 responses by dan_ed

dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Do you want to buy based on who wins a "discussion" of design theories, or how a phono stage sounds? There are many excellent examples of SS, tubed, w/SUT, w/o SUT, and hybrids. I know it's boring to hear but, trust your ears and try to audition in your system.
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Well, good luck to you. Don't be surprised if it gets to be somewhat of a "religious" discussion. ;-)
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Aesthetix is all tube gain stages I believe. I believe they are all tube gain stages. I do think the mm with SUT is perhaps the "standard". However, there can be more work involved with getting SUT loading optimized. Not a big thing, just a bit more work involved.

In my case, the phono stage I use has a FET mc gain stage that is configured conservatively. I.e., most of the gain is realized through the MM stage. I can run my XV-1s through my MM stage. Obviously, it sounds much better through the mc inputs, but I think that gives an idea of how much gain is applied at each stage.

I leave the discussion now since Actusreus is really looking for designer input.
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