2. amps-preamps
  3. 172893-41008

Ayre K-5xe preamp and turntable issues

I have 2 turntables with built-in phono pre-amps.  I have connected each through my Ayre K-5xe pre-amp.  In both cases the volume is so low, even if I turn the Ayre all the way up, the sound is minimal.  I am connecting the RCA cables from the turntable to the RCA ins on the Ayre.  Might anyone help me understand what the issue might be?  Much thanks.  

richcohan

Showing 2 responses by reubent

reubent
7,093 posts
 

A Google search of Technics SL-10 found this:

The SL-10 came equipped with the Technics EPS-310MC moving-coil cartridge. Due to the low output of the moving-coil cartridge, the SL-10 includes a built-in, bypassable step-up preamp to allow it to connect to standard phono inputs.

I think you would still need a phono stage, with gain, to get suitable volume. I think the step-up only steps the output up to the same level as a MM cartridge.

 

Regarding your Sony, I don't know. Either you have the switch turned off, the switch/phono pre-amp is not working, or the cartridge is a low-output cartridge.

I think you likely need to buy a phono pre-amp to put between your TT and Ayre pre-amp.

Good Luck, and Best Regards...

reubent
7,093 posts
 

Which turntables do you own that have built-in phono pre-amps? Are the built-in phono pre-amps defeatable via a switch? Or do you have separate RCA outputs for internal pre-amp and external pre-amp? Lastly, it is unlikely that any turntable has a built-in phono pre-amp that is switchable for both MM and MC cartridges. I'm not familiar with a TT that has this feature. All of the TTs I'm familiar with only support MM cartridges via the internal phono pre-amp, if they even have an internal phono pre-amp at all.

Good Luck. Hope you figure it out and get to enjoy your vinyl.

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