2. analog
  3. 1066084195

Seperate phono stage v.s. step up transformer

Fellow analog lovers help me with this dilemma. I have a Teres 265 turntable with a Graham 2.2 arm and a Lyra Helikon cartirdge. I just purchased a new preamp that has a terrific phono stage but, its' sensitivity is 2mV @47Kohms and the Lyra cartridge is only 0.22mV.
So I have 3 choices, get a new cartridge, get a seperate phono stage, or a step up transformer.
What would those of you with more experience in these things do? If it is change cartridge, which one? If seperate phono stage, which one? If a step up transformer can be used without sacrificing any detail, dynamics, etc. which one?
Thanks ahead of time to any of you that answer these questions.
agaffer

Showing 5 responses by twl

twl
3,251 posts
 
I agree with both David and Ed.
twl
3,251 posts
 
He's baaaack! As I obviously know nothing of step-ups and phonocorrectors, I shall defer to the all-knowing above.
twl
3,251 posts
 
I have the Mitchell Cotter Mk2 Step-up Transformer, and the factory instruction sheet to adjust the loading via soldered jumpers. Is this something that is considered a "serious" step-up device? I have lived with it for some time now. Am I getting close to qualifying as someone who knows about, and lives with, a serious step-up device? My fragile, audiophile ego is at stake here.
twl
3,251 posts
 
A high quality step-up transformer is a good way to go. Lower quality ones can interfere more with the sound. Even Kondo-san of Japan's Audio Note Ongaku fame requires a special step-up transformer with his top line cartridge. He states that it can do what no phono amplification circuit can, when dealing with very low output cartridges.

That said, I'm sure that you'll find enjoyment with the Groove you purchased. It is one of the most highly touted solid state phono sections.
twl
3,251 posts
 
Yes, David, you got me right. Just being sarcastic to the comments from the peanut gallery. I was also targeted as being "not qualified" to give decent advice. Interestingly enough, apparently so was Mr. Hagerman(Hagtech), who makes a very nice phono stage that is quite highly regarded by many. I guess none of us are up to Romy's high standards. :^)
More to discover