Placette passive and phono stage


Hello,

I've just moved from a complete digital system to trying out analog. I just got a Technics SL1200 MKII that I plan on doing the KAB modifications on. Before I start those modifications, I need to figure out the Phono Stage, currently I have a grado black cartridge feeding a NAD PP-1 then to my Placette. This setup is not acceptable, I do not have enough gain and there is a lot of surface noise.

My thoughts are as follows for the first upgrade. No. 1 - decide on Cartridge (I'm leaning to the Denon 103R), then get a better stand alone phono stage ($500 range), see if I have enough gain using the that combination with the placette, if not then I could get a step up transformer (maybe Jensen).

Does this sound like a logical path.
koryodell
The 100 vs. 50 ohm is not an issue. They are both much lower than the 9K input of the placette. One has more "punch" because it is just designed to have a higher output. As long as you have it loud enough even if wide open with the ECD and it sounds good you are golden.

I'm a little out of the loop on phono stages so I'll defer to somebody else.

.
So i bought the Ortofon M20E, now I just have to wait till it comes in from Germany.. I think I'll rewire my turntable while I'm waiting. I'm looking at the Blue Circle Audio Fon Lo Thingee for the phono stage. It looks interesting and very upgradeable.
I purchased the Fon Lo Thingee, demo's the upgrades and had to have them. It is excellent!

I purchased it from Jim in Kitchener (here) through his company "Good Sounds Audio" as he is a Blue Circle dealer and lives close to Innerkip where they are built.

Kevin