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phono pre loading and gain question

I have a Motif mp-11 phono pre. Inside, through switches, the gain can be set between 40, 45, and 48 db. On the front is a knob selector for loading with positions: 70 ohm, 100, 150, 250, 470, 1k, 2k, 5k, 10k, 20k, and 47k. I have read most of the threads and am still confused about how low of an output mc I can use. This feeds into a Sonic Frontiers preamp with 20db gain. I don't want to get a step-up transformer if I don't need one...but I would like to try a Shelter cartridge out. Also, why would my phono pre have so many loading choices but so little maximum gain. One more thing...are step ups very prone to noise or hum. thanks
skeyebox

Showing 2 responses by plato

plato
1,543 posts
 
Marty,
Sorry to but in on Tom's possible answer, but without knowing the input sensitivity of Skeyebox's amp and the efficiency of his speakers and the size of his listening room and what average listening level Skeyebox personally prefers... Who can say that he will or won't have enough gain with his present set up???
plato
1,543 posts
 
On the other hand, unless the amplifier input is very sensitive (like the Monarchy Audio SM-70) and the speakers are very efficient (maybe 95 dB/watt or better), TWL is probably correct that the 68 dB of overall preamplification would not provide adequate volume levels with the Shelter 501.
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