Step Up Transformer recommendations for a Denon DL-103

[Jimbo]

So, Fidelity Research FRT3, Denon AU320, a K&K SUT or Rothwell MCL?

You might want to ask Marco which one he would recommend as he uses a 103 and has used at least a few of those SUT,s although now I think he uses a headamp.

[RothwellAudio]

I wrote this page all about choosing transformers for Denon cartridges:

http://www.rothwellaudioproducts.co....for_denon.html

Did a Google search not come up with the page? I'll have to have words with them about that
Pretty much any turns ratio between 1:10 and 1:20 will be ok and the same range will work for the Audio Technica too. The 1:10 end of the spectrum will give you less voltage into the phonostage though not enough to be problem, but generally a lower turns ratio gives a better frequency response (all other things being equal, which they never are).

[CageyH]

Andrew,

I have read your page, which was very informative.
I am tempted by the MCL, but still have doubts about SUT Vs Headamp.

[walpurgis]

The thing about decent SUT's, is that they hold their value, so should you buy one to try at a sensible price and decide against it, you can re-sell it at no loss, apart from postage.

[RothwellAudio]

...but still have doubts about SUT Vs Headamp.

We have a distributor in France who may be able to arrange a SUT/Headamp demonstration for you
http://nc-audio.com/

Or you could ask for opinions here regarding SUTs and headamps but I suspect you will get a 50:50 split with half saying that nothing can beat a SUT and the other half saying that SUTs are rubbish. OK, maybe not that polarised, but enough conflict to leave you feeling none the wiser.

[CageyH]

Are vintage Haufe SUTs worth looking at?

[Barry]

Are vintage Haufe SUTs worth looking at?

Yes, as I mentioned in my post above, the Haufe T-7883s are ideal for the Denon 103. They are used in the well-regarded Auditorium A23 SUT, which for many was the SUT to use with the 103 and 103Pro.

The Altec 'Peerless' range of SUTs are also well regarded: Cinemag being their modern equivalent (Altec sold their transformer division to Cinemag).

And there are a couple of Lundahl transformers that are also popular with Denon 103 users.

[CageyH]

Thanks Barry.
I have just bought the Haufe SUT. It is a 1:20 version though, but was not that expensive.
That leaves me enough cash for a Rothwell Headspace as well.

[navigator]

With Denon 103R I used Rothwell MC L . Suited my rig to make quick transients staging and tight bass from valve Ear phono.

[CageyH]

The SUT has arrived.
I have plugged it in, and I am listening to the first few tracks. There is no noticeable hum, and it sounds quite good so far.