I'm new to Step Up Transformers


     I've recently become aware of the existence of SUTs (step up transformers). My initial thought was " why do I need an SUT when my phono preamp (Zestos Andros PS-1) has a circuit for Low Output MC cartridges?
     But many people seem to think that an SUT plugged into the MM channel of the phono stage will be a massive upgrade. I'd love to hear the opinions of anyone who has experience with SUTs. Thanks!

rmcfee

Showing 5 responses by jasonbourne71

Isn't the Soundsmith Paua a moving iron cartridge? That's the mechanism used by Grado and some others. No SUT required.

I checked and the Paua is indeed a moving iron cartridge like all the others in the Soundsmith line. 

The Paua is a moving iron cartridge and will work best with a high-gain phono stage - not an SUT.

@lowtubes : I agree! Different SUT's, like different cartridges, have unique sonic attributes. So experimentation is in order! I have five on hand to try, including a Quicksilver.​​

@chipcalzone : The cables from the SUT into the phono stage should be as short as possible to avoid loading down the transformer secondary. This is something that many users of SUT's are unaware of. My Cotter SUT came with fixed output cables of the proper length.