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To "Step up", or not?

I have a general question(s) about the use of step up transformers; Am I better off buying a cartridge that may be higher output and that matches my current phono stage, or buying a lower output cartridge and introducing a step up transformer into the system? Are lower output cartridges generally speaking, better than higher output? For example, I have read in this forum, and others, about the Denon DL103R, and Shelter 501. I would purchase one of these in the future. However, my phono stage only has a gain of 53db, which is not enough for these cartridges. To include one of these fine cartridges in my system, I would need a step up transformer. I am wondering if I would get better sound with a medium output cartridge and not have the step up.
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Showing 1 response by rmueller01

rmueller01
7 posts
 
I am dealing with the same issue. I Just got a Michell Gyro SE which I am outfitting with an Origen Live Silver rb250 arm and the Shelter 501 cartridge. (.4MV output)
My preamp is a Conrad Johnson PV10 tube unit. It has 48.5 dB gain in the Phono (which is MM or high output MC compatible) but 35dB linestage which is pretty high. I'm going to try the cartridge initially without anything and then I have arranged to try on loan a few alternatives:
1) E.A.R. 834P Phono stage (cost around 1000 new but this one is used $670)
2) New Ortofon step-up transformer (not sure of the model but it is $450 new)
3) S&B Transformer ($300)

I will let you know what my listening test shows but in the final analysis I am thinking I will sell the PV10 and upgrade to the PV14 and then get a separate phonostage like the Acoustech or Conrad Johnson EV1. (all a BIG leap in cost and sound)
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