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Phono Stage Amp

I have a mid-level to low end turntable. (Music Hall 11.1) and a low end decent Phono Stage Music Fidelity M1. Good tonearm and good cartridge. 

I listen to JAZZ so volume isn't too much of an issue, but sometimes I just want it loud. I have Cary Audio slp-05 tube pre and the Cary Audio mono block main tube amps as drivers

I crank the volume up just past half way and there tends to be distortion. Below half way the sound is incredible. The records sound better than the corresponding CD or, of course, DAC streaming.

Would upgrading my phono-stage to one with greater boost help me? Or is that half (my whole phono system) of my system as good as it could get?  

cinqcepages

Showing 2 responses by dekay

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,705 posts
 

There is an Audio-Technica Signet MK10T step up for sale now @ A'Gon.

Not certain if the 1/15 ratio is enough for your low output cartridge, but others here should know.

If so, it would be an inexpensive experiment.

DeKay

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,705 posts
 

If you like the sound with your digital source gear just just replace your current cartridge with one of higher output.

You can get a nice 1.0 mv Grado for $600 as well as gobs of high output MM's

 in the same and even lower price range.

Assume that they (even though less expensive) would sound better than the current mismatch you are dealing with.

If the dealer who originally set you up is local have them install it.

 

DeKay

 

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