Phono pre for ZYX 100 Yatra high output

I will suggest a K&K step up transformer to get more gain. I know the STU's are another link in the chain but it's another option. Kevin is a great guy and I suggest giving him a call and discussing your situatuion.

I've recently just retubed my Ph3 after 9 yrs(standard tubes were sovteks 6922. The new ones that i got from ARC are EH)Got the low output zyx bloom first to see if i had adequate gain in my phono section before i took the plunge for the 4D.

Comparing the old ARC ph3 tubes to the new ones, In My system the New tubes obviously breathed new life into the sound but i would say the most that i gained in the volume pot was about two clicks at the most. Can't say if this would be the same in your case.

hope this helps,

Another option if you want to keep the ARC, would be the ZYX pre-pre for more gain. It was excellent and easily bettered the SUT in my VAC Ren Mk2. If you do much reading, you will find that proper transformer and load matching with an SUT is critical. The ZYX is optomized for their carts and I will tell you that with a high resolution system you can hear small diffs in cart loading.

I agree with Swampwalker. I have tried several step-ups in my system and I love the CCP-1 from ZYX. I use the 26dB version with my XV-1s and Hovland MM-phonostage. Excellent i think.

I,m almost sure that ARC has a mod to have higher gain on your ph3. try giving a call to ARC.
BTW i have used the ph3 with my .45mv ortofon kontrapunkt A and yes of course cd is higher on the preamp but i woldn,t call it "sub-optimal".
I would try having my ph3 modded for higher gain rather than using and buying a step-up transf.
good luck