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Dynavector Karat 17D3---minimum gain needed?

I've got my eye on a used Monolithic Sound PS-1 phono preamp, and I'm wondering if the maximum gain this unit produces (53 dB) is sufficient for my Dynavector Karat 17D3 cartridge, which is a low-output MC which kicks out only 0.3mV. Dynavector's literature states this cart needs a phono stage with at least 60 dB of gain, but I'm wondering if I can reasonably get away with less. Or if I'm possibly already getting away with less---I'm currently using an old PS Audio Phonolink from the mid 90's with no problem. It's switchable between MM / MC, but has no provision for setting gain, although it does let you set resistance. I don't have the users manual so I don't know how much gain it applies in MC mode, but I've noticed that 47dB seems to be a standard fixed gain on many phono preamps out there. So, what do the moving coil cartridge experts out there have to say? Thanks, Will Herrera
will_herrera

Showing 2 responses by jependleton

jependleton
155 posts
 
Hello All,

You may need to consider both the phono stage gain and the preamplifier gain. I am using a Karat 17D3 and DV75 Mk. II set for 63 db of gain going into a McCormack TLC-1 using the non-buffered output, which has no gain. I have to set the volume on the TLC-1 just a bit higher than I do for the CD player.

This makes me think that under many circumstances that this would be enough total gain. I don't know if the Monolithic, as good as it is, has a good combination of impedance and capacitance matching for the Karat 17D3. As another poster mentioned, the match of this cartridge with the DV75 Mk. II is designed to be right.

In fact, the DV75 Mk. II works better here than the combination of a Dynavector DV/6Z stepup transformer and a McCormack EF-1 phono stage in regard to overall sound quality.

Jim Pendleton
Osage Audio Pruducts, LLC
jependleton
155 posts
 
I see I need to stick to trying to do one thing at a time. It's a Conrad-Johnson EF-1 phono stage with the DV/6Z stepup transformer. I think the DV75 Mk. II is a much better match with the Karat 17D3.

Best wishes.

Jim Pendleton
Osage Audio Products, LLC
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