Step-up Transformer

[pure sound]

Which setting is preferable for the OC-5? Do also say which is preferable for the 103. I think the Cinemags are a modern day take on the Altec 4722, which offered 38 and 150 ohm. (1:36 & 1:18) I'd guess the lower ratio (higher impedance) might suit the 103 better.

[MartinT]

For the AT33PTG (and presumably the OC9 and OC5), the low gain setting is preferable, giving 24dB and 184 Ohm loading.

[Ammonite Audio]

I asked Bob at Bobs Devices whether the Cinemag SUT would be suitable for the AT33PTG and the DL-103, running into my GCPH. He said that the Cinemag in low gain mode (1:16) will match both cartridges and work well with the GCPH. I've not done any maths to confirm that, but the OC5 is happy with the low gain setting.

[kcc123]

I hope I would not cause any altercations from any of you, especially Macro. Hehe!

Is it better to use a dedicated MC phono stage rather than a MM stage with transformer?
It is my perception that the extra cable and connections would impair the sound, to a certain degree, not to mention the extra cost and space to accommodate the additional unit. I am in the’ less is more’ camp.

[MartinT]

My Whest can do MC direct in, but I still prefer the sound with the SUT, if that answers your question.

[kcc123]

I have several phono stages, head amps and transformers in my collection and I have done quite a few comparisons with and without transformers. I always find the extra cable changes/masks the sound slightly. It is like a sort of colourations introduced by the extra cable. The sound is more pure and transparent without the transformer and cable.

[Marco]

Hi King,

If that's what you hear, then that's what you hear

Is it better to use a dedicated MC phono stage rather than a MM stage with transformer?

There is no universal or definitive answer to that, as there are quite simply too many variables.

In my experience, some MC cartridges, such as the DL-103 (and Martin's AT-33PTG), perform optimally when used through an SUT, regardless of any coloration rendered by partnering cables, as the sonic benefits of using an SUT grossly outweigh the negative effect (if one can hear any) of colorations caused by employing the use of extra cables.

Other cartridges perform better used straight into an active MC stage - I'm afraid you just have to suck it and see.

Everything in audio is a compromise - you just have to choose which suit you best!

Marco.