Phono Preamp. With transformer or fully active


What is the difference in sound between a fully active phono stage and one that uses a transformer for part of gain 

I read  discussions in External SUT’s being used and phono stages with built in transformers ?

I noticed that CJ Tea2 has two inputs one is with transformer & one is fully active ?

l also read discussions on fully active 
What is better?   Lol

is the sound softer, more detail , more soundstaging? Quieter?

jeff
frozentundra

Showing 1 response by mijostyn

This discussion is beyond my pay grade.

I do believe that whatever the transformer it is dependent on the performance of the phono amp it is attached too. I have installed Sowter transformers ( they have several units designed for various cartridge impedance) in several phono amps the last one being an ARC PH 3 SE.
All I can say is that it was an easy job and it worked wonderfully well. For best performance the transformer have to be installed within the phono amp. It is also very cost effective. I have also used Sowter's ESL transformers in my Acoustats with great results.
Having said all this I prefer a fully active design. I am particularly enamored by Channel D's new units. They run in current mode and have battery power supplies that isolate the units from the mains. They are the quietest units on the market and not by a small margin.