mc transformers

Anyone any xp with these, some of the older ones, like denons, and the newer ones, which are any good?, I have been told to steer clear from Audio Innovatinons, so any others please give me your findings...thanks

 

I have a Denon transformer, but now have to use a dedicated phono stage.
To be honest, you would be better off getting hold of a decent phono stage. In fact I suggest spending as much money as you can (and possibly more) on getting a really good phono stage - the differences are not small IME.

 

If you have a very nice phono stage already, and are looking for a means of using a moving coil..

Id point you towards the E.A.R MC3 step up currently being sold second hand at Definitive Audio Notts.

About 300 used. Around 700 new?

This Step up can be set for varying loads, and is the MC stage from E.A.R.'s top pre-amps.

If you dont want to spend that, try the emporium for a step-up.

thats what Id do at any rate.

 

I use a step up tranny from Tim de P, too. It seems very good, although careful placement of the tranny and its ICs is necessary to avoid hum.

 

Proper grounding also makes a huge difference. Basically any good phono stage will also have a transformer inside, too and which may be in a separate power supply. The Denon (for example) is basically a transformer with in and outs and needs to be kept as far away from other electronics as possible IME...

 

Before getting my current amps(with a built in MC stage) I was using an Ortofon t20mkII and had similar findings to Joel - the little Ortofon needed to be as far away from other electronics as possible, or it had a tendency to hum. Great thing, though, and if you can find one for a sensible price I'd recommend it.

Hope that helps,

Goomer.