Music Direct are misinforming you.
Loading the Soundsmith cartridge below the recommended 470ohms load will result in awful sound.
You need to find another phono.
Does anyone have experience matching an Icon PS1 MKII with a Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC Star?
I own Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC Star LO cartridge. I am looking to purchase an Icon PS1 MKII phono pre. The PS1 uses a passive 10:1 SUT with a fixed 100 ohm impedance for the MC input. The Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC Star cartridge requires a minimum 470 ohm load. Music Direct is telling me that I should be fine. But I would be interested in hearing from someone who has experience with this actual combination. Thanks.
You have 2 easy options - If you purchase the Icon PS1 you would need to buy a SUT wth 1/10 step up ratio and plug it into the MM input. There are plenty of vintage units such as Denon AU320 or Denon AU340 that will do the job. Alternately bobs Devices are a company that build SUTs, get good reviews, and they can advise you on the appropriate SUT to buy. Second option is to buy the Soundsmith MCP2 phono. This has fantastic loading options and will match your cartridge. I have compared this phono, using a Soundsmith Paua, to some much more expensive phono stages, eg Lamm, Linn Uphorik and others and it is a very good phono. Personally in your instance I would recommend you buy the Soundsmith MCP2, it's very good and will save you a lot of headaches. They also come up second hand from time to time if you want to save some money. It is unfair to blame Soundsmith for not knowing what is inside the Icon. It is clear from the comments by the Icon designer that they have chosen a fixed 100 ohm ;had for MC cartridges based on recommendations from Ortofon.
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Both the suggestions by @tablejockey are good options. Manley Chinook & Zesto Andros. I've listened to the Andros for a couple of years with a variety of cartridges - it's very good. musical and underrated in my opinion. |