Low Output MC's- Are We Playing W/ Fire ??


Might the current rage w/ low output MC's and the neccesity to use step-up transformers, at least on tubed phono stages, be introducing a new potentially harmful link into the chain. Not all step-up transformers are created equal. Might we get overall better performance out of a well executed .45 mv output design ( Helikon ) w/o using a step-up vs. a .22 mv output ( Helikon SL ) w/ a step-up. Or are low outputs almost ALWAYS better ?
fbhifi

Showing 1 response by sean

There is one question that i have always wondered about situations like this. Since a very low output cartridge has a smaller window of operation from highest to lowest output levels, isnt' the dynamic range of the system drastically compromised or at least reduced ? From what i can see, there is no way to get around this "problem". Since we are talking about the source of information that the rest of the system has to operate from, wouldn't this be considered a VERY negative aspect for a phono cartridge to possess ??? Sean
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