SUT - electrical theory and practical experience


Some vinyl users use a SUT to enhance the signal of the MC cartridge so that it can be used in the MM input of a phono stage.  Although I don't understand the theory behind it, I realize that a SUT should be matched individually to a particular cartridge, depending on the internal impedance of the MC, among other things.  

Assuming an appropriately / ideally matched SUT and MC, What are the inherent advantages or disadvantages of inserting a SUT after the MC in the audio chain?  Does the SUT theoretically enhance or degrade the sound quality?  What does the SUT actually do to the sound quality? 

Thanks. 

drbond

Showing 3 responses by tangramca

Hi, I am looking for some real world advice. I recently purchased a new LOMC (Etsuro Urushi Cobalt Blue) that has an output of 0.25mv and 3 ohm internal impedance. I use an Allnic H-3000 phono preamp. An audio friend has the next step up (pun intended) of my cartridge with similar specs. Not sure what phono pre he uses. He swears by the SUT he’s using with it (Luna Cables Rouge):

 

My question is:

With the Allnic’s design, is it likely that I would achieve a significant improvement in sound quality if I were to add the right SUT (the Rouge may or may not be “right” for my cartridge specs)? I must say, the cartridge sounds great with the Allnic but only compared to the last cartridge I was using, a Kiseki Purple Heart, but maybe there’s a chance I’ve left something on the table?

Thanks Lew. Yes, there is a MM input. I wasn’t sure if the transformers in the Allnic were being used in the same role as a SUT plays. And yes, it is my understanding that Allnic hand builds the transformers and uses permalloy cores, which seem preferable to those with SUT experience/expertise.

I guess there is no harm in borrowing one to try but given that good SUTs are quite pricey (for a passive device), there would need to be a decent audible improvement for me to keep one in my system.

Thanks for the link and the commentary. I guess the first step is to borrow one that is ballpark the “right” one (I think windings ratio is the spec) and see if it wows me. I did try the Allnic SUT into an EAR 868pl MM input but was underwhelmed. But that was one cartridge ago. Maybe that would just replicate the sound of the H-3000 anyway.