MM or MC cartridge for Mm input on Preamp

Rooze, the point is that max gain via either MM or MC inputs on the Steelhead is the same. Only difference is the range of load resistance available in each case. Using MM you can load an LOMC at 47K, if you like. Using MC inputs, the max R is 400 ohms. I’m sure you know this, just wanted to clarify for the OP.

@houstonreef You didn't mention your tonearm, which is a nice tidbit of info for cart recommendations. It's a great time to be cart shopping with so many excellent options!

​Two very good carts that are medium compliance and fit your stated preferences are the Aidas CU Durawood​​​, and the Tedeska Euterpe. Both made in Europe.

If intrigued I am happy to elaborate more on how they differ. Disclosure of interest - I am the importer of both of these wonderful brands. Happy hunting :)

Aidas

Euterpe

​​

Thank you all for the info. @lewm have LOMC plugged in MM input, we can test trial/error on the resistance set up variable up to 47k or we have to set it at 47k.

Houston, Just look at the selector switch.  In the MM mode you can select any of many possible load resistances, from 47K on down.  Since my own unit is not in front of me, I cannot recall the lower limit available.  For fun, you might start at 47K and go down from there in increments to find what for you would be a sweet spot.  There is no "wrong" choice, except as a rule of thumb you'd like to stay at or above a load R value that is about 10X the internal R of your particular LOMC.

@lewm Yep, gotcha on the gain. My point, which I didn't explain very well, is that despite both inputs having sufficient gain to run a 0.1mv, the MM input with a 0.1mv sounds a bit noisier than the MC. Given that the MM input generally sounds better, it's worth seeking out a cartridge with sufficient output, perhaps .25 or greater, to take advantage of the MM input on the Steelhead.

Actually, using the MM on the Steelhead is pretty new to me so I'm still discovering the best way to set things up. I'd always run into the MC with the various cartridges I've owned, from 0.1 through 0.4mv.