2. analog
  3. 178611-7401

Phono Stage Gain - how does it impact sound?

Just upgraded from Hana EL (0.5mV out) to Hana ML on my MoFi UltraDeck table. Running Sutherland KC Vibe MkII phono stage. Max gain on the Vibe is 60db. Hana ML output is 0.4mV. Absolutely love the sound. Sweet, extended treble, vibrant mids, great clarity. Intoxicating sound. Soundstage is immersive. A huge upgrade over the EL. However, the bass is slightly on the lighter side. It’s detailed, textured, but lacking in the impact and dynamics department. Around 5hrs so far on the new ML but I doubt it’s the break in. I’m suspecting the 60db max gain on the Vibe isn’t driving my Pass XP-12 line stage to the fullest potential. 
 

Cartridge is set up as perfectly as I could get it using Dr. Feichert protractor - overhang, VTA, azimuth, stylus force all seem right. Imaging is dead on. 
 

Thoughts? 

128x128audphile1

Showing 2 responses by chayro

chayro
2,933 posts
 

I had a TZ Vibe for audition and also found it very quiet, but lean and somewhat steely sounding. Admittedly, I only had it for 10 days or so, but I was just uncomfortable with the sound. Exchanged it for a Heed phono stage and was very pleased. Not as dead quiet, but much fuller, more listenable sound to my ears.

chayro
2,933 posts
 

Your original post described the bass as on the lighter side and lacking in impact. You can call it anything you like, but it’s still comes down to bottom-end issues. The TZ is one model up from the KC. FYI, Steve Gutenberg reviewed the much more expensive little Loco and also found it somewhat lacking in bass compared to his reference phono stage. So it may be something inherent in the line. 

More to discover