Tango Step Up Transformers vs Bob's Sky Blue Cinemag


Hello,

I am considering getting an SUT and was wondering if anyone could share their experience with the sonic signatures between vintage Tango transformers and Bob's Devices Sky Blue Cinemags.

I realize having the correct step up ratio and optimum loading in relation to your specific cartridge is of utmost importance, but with all things being equal... I'm curious of the sound signatures of each.  The tone, the dynamics, the soundstaging, etc.

Even if you only have experience with only one or the other... any help would be greatly appreciated :)

Best Wishes for great health and happiness to all,
Don
no_regrets

Showing 1 response by mulveling

Haven’t heard Tango, but the blue-label CineMag / Bob’s Devices Sky lineup is excellent. They’re on the warm / lush / fleshy (even slightly "bloomy") side of the tonal spectrum, but they’ll still be more detailed than lesser (cheaper) transformers like the CineMag red-label 3440A, Lundahl’s lower-end LL9206, etc. Pairs wonderfully with everything I’ve thrown at it -- Ortofon Cadenza Bronze, Koetsus of all stones & cantilevers, top Shelters, etc. Or course the Benz LPS doesn’t mate well to SUTs in general, but that’s not the Sky’s fault.

The Sky has a pleasing, musical sound that’s fun to listen to. It doesn’t have the laser-beam razor sharpness of some others (Lundahl LL1931 and LL1931Ag), but for me that can get in the way of music too. Adding a Sky in place of a SS headamp or MC stage can often alleviate problems with "anemic" sonic balance, yielding newfound weight and palpability to the music.