EAR MC3 moving coil transformer

Quicksilver makes one - check it out at the website - also Ortofon makes two - one is very pricey. Check their website. I have a Benz Micro Silver Reference 2 at .3 mv and use the Ortofon T - 5 's which are small and plug directly into the rca inputs . They are excellent and can be gotten usually on ebay from time to time. I would also like to check out the MC 3 but have not been able to find one used or new. I read the review on their web but would rather have other input from actual owners, too.

There is an inexpensive Ortofon mca 76 transformer on ebay now; bidding is at 75 dollars, I believe. Know anything about that one?

I don't think that Ortofon on Ebay is a transformer. I think it is a head amp, even though it's described as a transformer. It has a power cord on it.

The EAR is a very good transformer. Cotter is better, so is Verion(an OEM version). Older Bryston MC transformers, were also Cotters in disguise. Shelter makes a brand new one for about $900.

For lower bucks, the used Denon, and Supex are a good bet. You'll need 30db boost for that cartridge, with most MM sections.

Thank you for the responses. I was curious about that power cord coming from the Ortofon mca 76. I know of the Cotter but really do not want to drop a grand on a transformer. If I spend that kind of money I would just bite the bullet and order a Syrah preamp from Supratek; ie, it is designed with low output cartridges in mind for the phono section. A grand is a huge chunk of the 2500 price for the syrah. Of course, I'd then have to wait another five to seven months to get my new toy.

That EAR is looking pretty good. Can anyone comment on the EAR transformer vs the more expensive pre-preamp (head amp) devices sold by EAR (834?). My thought is a properly executed transformer is the way to go as it is not a powered device. Hell, if it is good enough for Mr Kondo...

Regards,
Carl