2. analog
  3. 1112759668

New cart, step-up or ???

Just got a Hagerman Trumpet to go with a Joule LA-100MKIII I recently acquired. Analog front end is Benz Glider L2 (0.25mv)/OL Silver/SOTA Star Saphirre. The Trumpet has 44 dB gain, the Joule 11 dB. I have run it as is, and the volume is fine at about 11:30-12:30 rotation on the Joule. Hagerman recommends his 20 dB step-up instead of his additional gain stage; or I could stand pat, or I could go to a new, mid output MC. Recommendations?? If a new cart is in the offing, what is a good match. Price of the step up is $850, addntl gain stage $500 plus 2 way shipping, cart would be less salvage value of near new Benz ($300 +/-?) What say you, analog gurus? TIA
swampwalker
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
I think that the answers are really system and listener dependent. Some can put up with a bit of noise, some can't. Some will trade a bit of transparency for enhanced dynamic contrasts, some won't. Some gear works better with transformers and certain cartridges, some don't. Like a warped record, round 'n round, and up 'n down we go.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker OP
5,132 posts
 
the variable responses I have read made me ask this question with a third option- which I am now getting some support for- getting a higher output MC cart. The Glider is pretty new, not more than 100 hrs since it was re-tipped. Anyone got any idea on the re-sale value? Then if you add in the $500 that it would cost to have Hagerman mod the Trumpet phono to provide proper gain for an MC stage or the cost of a good transformer, give me some suggestions for a cart. Pretty please? If I go to NYC, maybe I can listen to some of them.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker OP
5,132 posts
 
Also just saw a Denon 500 something or other head amp with 26 & 33 dB voltage gain for $215. any thoughts?
rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Hi Swamp: Like the SUT the head amp do a degradation to the signal, too.
Please read to my last post to you, maybe there you can find the answer to your " problem " ( I don't know if you really have a problem ).

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
I prefer transformers to head amps. The Denon AU-320 and AU-340 are ok transformers, though they are getting a little long in the tooth. I speak from first hand experience, as I still own a 320, though I don't use it much. They have been eclipsed by newer designs, look into the Lundahl, K&K or Bent Audio.
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