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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? 

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Showing 1 response by macg19

macg19
672 posts
 

I ran my Hana ML (awesome cart for $1200) at 62dB of gain (lowest setting on the Goldnote PS10) and that was plenty of gain. I tried 65dB but that was obviously way too much, so based on my limited experience 60dB should be fine. (I'm now running an Aidas that outputs 0.3mv but still at @ 62dB).

The Sabrina's are full range and should not need subs (although I am a REL fan - but I pair 2 RELs with Harbeth 30.2's cause that combo cost way less and are much easier to drive than the Sabrina's, otherwise I would have bought them).

I've heard the Sabrina's with a Hana ML powered by a nice tube amp (I forget which one, might have been a BAT VK 80i) and they can slam.

I think you need a bigger amp. 

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