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Do you own a Benz Lukaschek PP-1 phono pre?

Strange question. I bought one of these sleek little Benz units used a while back. Mine came with a 110v wall-wart power transformer from Polytrona AG, and it has some form of European plug configuration plus a Brookstone travel adapter. It's cheesy and I'd like to get a proper U.S. version of the transformer. Benz wants $50 and it will take like 6 years or something to come from Switzerland and I have to go through a dealer (now there's a big sale). So...if anyone owns a Benz with a proper transformer, could you let me know the manufacturer and model or part number? Maybe I can locate one online somewhere.

The one I have outputs 24V. I guess that should be readily available, but of course I want the best I can find and all that.

I welcome any suggestions, including to just shut up and be happy with what I've got. Thanks.
Ag insider logo xs@2xdrubin
6 responses Add your response
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drubin OP
3,274 posts
 
I like mine. I'm not convinced that its fixed 22K ohm load is ideal even
for Benz cartridges. I wish it could be adjusted, but I suppose fixing it is
a way of improving the sound. I love the small size and jewelry box
form factor.

It's probably a component I will upgrade at some point in the future,
mostly because phono preamps are relatively affordable and fun to play
with. But it is very enjoyable.
spinitch
25 posts
 
Do you recommend(anybody)?

I am contemplating buying one(PP-1/T9)used.
charliee's avatar
charliee
178 posts
 
Drubin,
I previously owned a PP-1 and the factory wall wart was a
simple step down transformer (110 to 24V). I went to Radio Shack and picked up another to replace it with for less than $20

The one you will get from Benz will not be any better, just more expensive. There is nothing exotic about it,just
a simple transformer.

If you do go to R.S. be shure to take the PP-1 with you so
that you can fit it with the proper input plug.
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drubin OP
3,274 posts
 
Thanks. To be clear, it's not a voltage adapter. It's a plug adapter.
davidlschr
12 posts
 
Mine has absolutely no indication on it who manufactured it. The specs printed on it are Input: 110VAC:6VA Output 24VAC.
reb1208
518 posts
 
This is the brand it comes with for USA use . The voltage adapter should cause you no problems. You probably bought one that came here as "grey goods" - hence the need for the adapter.

Are you happy with the way it sounds? For what that unit is-it puts many higher priced phono stages to shame.
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