Get a Bellari MT502 SUT for the Denon 103. That’s what I use. There are two for sale right now on eBay. $299 and $349. I recommend this combination over a HOMC or MM cartridge.
High output MC cartridges for phono with 40dB gain
Hi,
I recently replaced my Lehmann Audio Decade phono preamp with Dynaco PAS-4 preamp. The phono gain on Dynaco PAS-4 is only 40 dB, so I am now not able to use my Denon DL-103. I am currently using Empire EDR9 moving iron cartridge, but am curious to also try high output moving coil carts.
Any recommendations on the HOMC carts that could match/surpass the sound quality of Empire EDR9? Or, for that matter, moving magnet carts that could match/surpass Empire EDR9?
Lastly, would it make sense to try SUT for Denon DL-103, or is it too much hassle?
Thanks!
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The SUT suggested above should be a very good match for your DL-103, as it has selectable loading between 50 and 100 Ohms, the recommended load for the Denon being 100 Ohms. The only caveat: any hum/noise present will also be multiplied, along with your music. Well worth the low entry fee, to pursue as an experiment, in your system. On the other hand: the Hana EH cart sports 2.0mV output (available for under $500) and should easily (arguably/according to your tastes) outperform your current Empire MM, providing the rest of your system has the gain to sate any SPL hunger (Empire=4.5 vs Hana 2.0mV). Isn't this game fun? https://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HAE
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