High end SUT

[flapland]

I am seriously considering getting either of the following to use with my range of cartridges which include Transfiguration, Shelter and Lyra's. Anyone have any experience of at least one of them. All of them are currently for sale in the UK from a range of sellers.

Audio Technica AT-1000T This a a 8KG silver transformed beast in a copper case. On paper looks great but I know the detail is in the actual transformer design.

Choir HM7 using Hashimoto HM7's

Bob's Devices Cinemag 1131 blue. Top of the Cinemag range.

Thanks in advance guys.

[petrat]

I only know the Hashimoto, Paul, but the two tappings should be perfect for the range of cartridges you indicate. The HM7s are up there with Kondo and the best Audio Note in my books, and may even be a bit more neutral and natural to some ears. Huge thumbs-up for the Choir ... or, if you buy the transformers, get valvebloke to wire them up (he can build in switchable loading, too).

[flapland]

Thanks Peter, the Choir is pretty tempting especially if its as good as you and others state. I have a A23 SPU sut at the moment which is no slouch. What ever I get will feed the phono section of AN M2 SE and then into the Shindo Aurieges.

[petrat]

Well, I chose the HM3 hashi in preference to EAR MC4, Ortofon ST80SE, A23 (DL103 version) and Audio Note S2 ... all in direct comparison over months of listening. Actually, it didn't take months to make up my mind, as it was obviously better than all those from the very first minute. The two occasions I have spent time with the HM7, I think it shades the HM3 in sheer transparency, and maybe also soundstaging.

[flapland]

I borrowed a HM3 myself and agree it bettered the AN S2 I had at the time hence the temptation to get the Choir HM7. However I am also considering getting someone to build a LCR phono stage and I can't afford to do both although I am sure they will both bring improvements.