MC transformers - what do they sound like?

When I had MC pickups I initially used a Signet transformer that was almost the size of a beer can, which I gather is larger than most. I was very skeptical about the merits of a transformer, and it was only after I abandoned it and went on to active MC preamps that I realized how good the transformer was.

This is probably an area where generalities are inapropriate. Results will be highly dependent on which transformer and which pickup is involved, and which preamp you compare it with.

Rauliruegas...Transformers do have their proponents. In addition to the MC phono aplication, some prefer transformer-coupled amplifier stages over capacitors, and some prefer variable coupling transformers over pots for volume control.

Rauliruegas...Agree that dirct coupled amps are best. I have some Kenwood LO-7M monoblocks that are direct coupled. Such an amplifier is really a DC power supply, with high slew rate and analog voltage control.

Raul's system should be called "Shiva". All those arms!

Along the lines of Dougdeacon's comment, the availability of a $800 SUT may make it possible for a financially-challanged audiophile to use a superior MC cartridge, that would be out of the question if he had to buy a $5000 preamp. One must consider the cartridge/SUT combination in this tradeoff.