Scott ...
Here's another thread on the AT ART-9:
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/pani-new-art-9-up-and-running
Here's another thread on the AT ART-9:
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/pani-new-art-9-up-and-running
Audio Research PH5 Phono Preamplifier Input Clipping Problem
I have an ARC PH5 phono preamplifier and most of the time it sounds fine. But on a few of my favorite LP's with wide dynamic range, it will clip and distort on loud sections, especially those with lots of bass content. This only happens with use of a step-up transformer, without the SUT in line, there is no clipping. I do prefer to use the SUT, as without it I have to turn the volume setting on my ARC REF 3 preamp to a very high level. I have to conclude that the PH5 is distorting because of high input signal levels, due to the gain of the SUT. I have tried two SUT's, one with 13:1 and the other at 7:1, both exhibit the same problem (although the lower gain SUT is much better). The cartridge is Ortofon A90 with .27 mv output. Given this, would you expect clipping or do you think there is something wrong with the PH5? I have talked to ARC about this issue, and they seem to think that there is a chance the PH5's maximum input of 70 mv is being reached on these loud sections. Would appreciate opinions from those that have experience with a similar setup. Thanks.
Showing 3 responses by oregonpapa
Scott ... " So a PH-5 and REF 3 are really only good for LOMC? Yipes." I've owned the ARC phono stages from the PH-5, PH-7, PH-7se and now the PH-8. I use a REF-3 preamp also. According to the techs at ARC, their phono stages, including your PH-5 are designed to operate best with a cartridge output of between .4 to .8 ... with .5 being the ideal. Get the cartridge right, and these phono stages really sing. Instead of investing in a new preamp, why not take a look at a new cartridge? The Audio Technica ART-9 is a wonderful cartridge and works perfectly with your preamp. The ART-9 has an output of .5. Its available from LP Tunes at the moment for $1197 with free shipping. Here's the link: http://www.lptunes.com/Audio-technica-AT-ART9-MC-phono-cartridge-p/atart09.htm The ART-9 is a true over achiever competing with cartridges in the 3-5k price range. Here's an entire thread on the ART-9: https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/audio-technica-at-art9-phono-cartridge Hope this helps. OP |
rauliruegas ... With all due respect, I think we may have a language problem here. I wasn't commenting on whether the A90 is a better cartridge than the ART-9. My comments were directed at which cartridge is a better match for the ARC PH-5. True that I haven't heard the A-90 in my system. It may or may not be a superior cartridge, but if it doesn't work with the pre-amp, what good is it? Take care ... OP |