Resistor in phono stage

Using the a supex step up transformer of course.

Ah! Which of course explains how the 54 db gain of the phono stage suffices for use with a 0.2 mv cartridge.

But it also adds to the possibility that either resistors or capacitors a previous user might have installed in the phono stage could be an issue. For example, suppose a previous user had installed 1K resistors, for use with a cartridge having a rated output in the upper part of the LOMC range. And let’s assume that your SUT provides a gain of 10:1. That would mean your cartridge would be seeing a load of only 10 ohms, which stands a very good chance of being low enough to result in the adverse effects Lew referred to in his previous post that can occur when load resistance becomes excessively low.

From the perspective of the cartridge, use of a SUT also greatly increases the effects of any capacitors that might have been installed on the loading terminals within the phono stage. Which as I mentioned earlier could conceivably have been done to conform to the loading requirements of some moving magnet cartridges.

So I would definitely open up the unit and take a look at what if anything has been installed on those terminals.

Regards,
-- Al

With SUTs, it is the loading of the transformer to prevent ringing and also to allow it to express its turns ratio that is important.

If loaded with a value too low, the highs will be rolled off. If loaded with too high a value, there will be ringing, which is say distortion, most audible as being bright and in your face.

Low output cartridges by themselves are insensitive to loading. Its the SUT and and also the preamp where the loading becomes critical.

Awesome guys.You probably helped alot of us out.thanks

Hi,just letting you know.Everything under the hood appears to be standard.Over the last few weeks,ive weeded out 90 odd records.I now believe my problem was,,,with moving up the transparency ladder,my record collection needed adjustment.With a good recording Im very happy with what Im hearing.It is a little strange how a old new record has lost something.Anyway,I think im on the right track now.thanks

Good advice above. Also important is exactly which brand and type of resistor and capacitor you use. I prefer nude Vishay VAR resistors, available from Parts Connexion. For capacitors, styrene film and foil from Relcap, or just about any source, sound best to me (also available from Parts Connexion). Teflon caps can sound a bit hard, but not styrene.