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Minimum Cart Output for 30db Gain Phonostage

So, I have a Benz M2 with .8mv of output. I'm looking at getting a phono stage with a headphone jack (which is the only way I will be using these two pieces of equipment together). It is the Bellari which is rated at 30db of gain. Am I pushing it? Will it be plausible sound quality to a reasonable listener?

thanx in advance, Joe
pawlowski6132

Showing 1 response by axelwahl

axelwahl
788 posts
 
Hi,
let me add some mustard from my own experience. (BTW I do agree with Al's statement.) Why?

Practically speaking, I use a 3.0mV Nagaoka MP-50 with a 60dB! phono-stage setting and unity gain with my pre-amp which is just fine at about 12 - 1 o'clock.

Now think of 1/3 (actually less) the cart output -- with yet 1/2 the phono-pre gain!!!
See what I mean - no way.
Greetings,
Axel
PS: Look at some 3.0mV to 4.0mV cart output at least, and you be about OK. Conclusion?
Get some top MM or MI such as e.g. a Nagaoka MP-50 (~$450) or Ortfon M20FL super(~$150) and it will work.
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