Classe DR-5 Pre-Amp Users

Is there a reason why you can't change the gain resistors that are installed in the preamp now ? The purpose of adjustable gain is so that you can use virtually any cartridge of your choice, versus being restricted to specific cartridges that will work best at one gain setting. If you're missing replacement resistors, you can always buy some Roederstein or Vishay in the values recommended in the owner's manual from DigiKey or Mouser.

I'm using the latest Benz Micro Glider M2 MC phono cartridge with 0.8mV output, and it's just about right for my stock Classe Five preamp. At about 12 o'clock on the volume knob, the cartridge is as loud as the CD player at a little over 9 o'clock - which is pretty loud. You should be fine with a medium output cartridge around 1.0mV. If I wasn't so squeamish about soldering, I might bump up the Gain to 24 dB, for a total gain of 59 dB (plus the 35 dB already in the path for MM Gain) with the Glider.

Actually, these resistors are soldered in place and I am very hesitant to tackle this job. I have not held a soldering gun in many years and this appears to be a very critical situation that can be easily messed up. What I was thinking is that a high output (2mv or higher) cartridge would do very nicely.

I listen mostly to classical and jazz music. I love single instrument as well as small and large scale choral and orchestral classical works. I also love small jazz groups and big band orchestras. I love the human voice so spend lots of time listening to choral groups.

I look for an expansive sound that permits me to listen into the sound stage. I love to be able to hear each voice or instrument individually. I look for and love a huge romatic and honest sound stage that presents mostly what I hear when I go to hear live music. Live music is the Absolute Sound for me. Thank you so much.

Bob