2. analog
  3. 132371-104901

input impedance load on a cartridge.

I am interested in purchasing an MC cartridge that prefers a 400ohm "load"from the pre amp. My head amp for MC cartridges provides 110ohms which is the highest recommendation for the unit (according to the manual). In theory I should be able to change the resistors to alter the load but I am worried that going beyond the recommended value would harm the pre amp/head amp.

Can I alter the resistors to accommodate the cartridge or should I be looking for a different cartridge (or a different head amp)?

I am particularly interested in the possibility of changing the load. The alternative cart/pre option is of secondary interest.


oharchie

Showing 4 responses by oharchie

oharchie's avatar
oharchie OP
31 posts
 
Thank you.

Outside of doing harm to the components, would there be any detrimental effect on the sound if I were to go outside of the manufacturers recommended specs?

This an Audio Research MCP-1 head amp that I am thinking about modifying.

http://www.audioresearch.com/ContentsFiles/MCP1_Manual_Schem.pdf

See page 3.

oharchie's avatar
oharchie OP
31 posts
 
This is great advice.

The cart is a Hana EL which has a manufacturer suggested load impedance of >400ohm. My MCP-1 would be giving it 110 ohm.

Negligable or... important?

What would this actually do?

Only reason I’m fussing is because buying and returning carts is not as easy as say a cable or other such things.


oharchie's avatar
oharchie OP
31 posts
 
That's a preferable option =)

But just to fill my understanding of what is happening here - why match the recommended load if you have the ability and if you don't, what if anything is missing?



oharchie's avatar
oharchie OP
31 posts
 
@atmasphere 

Yes, thank you. That sums it up very nicely.


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