I have played with a couple of step up transformers and have had the same problem with both: the interconnect between the step up and the preamplifier is too long, too heavy, and too stiff. I am going to a Kimber model that is 18 inches long, lightweight, and as flexible a piece of string.
Long, heavy and stiff means you are putting stress on the RCA's and hum is a result of this. I currently use a Furutech RCA to RCA IC for turntables that is 4 feet or 1.2 metres long. A thing of beauty to look at but twice as long as it needs to be.
YMMV
Long, heavy and stiff means you are putting stress on the RCA's and hum is a result of this. I currently use a Furutech RCA to RCA IC for turntables that is 4 feet or 1.2 metres long. A thing of beauty to look at but twice as long as it needs to be.
YMMV