I believe you on exceeding expectations with Hana ML. In fact, I loved Hana ML so much that I upgraded to Hana Umami Red on my SME 15AV TT. I am now back to exploring options on TT / Tonearm and Cart for my 2nd system (all analog). I am trying to keep it under $5K and Hana ML will be again my top choice.
Phono Stage Gain - how does it impact sound?
Just upgraded from Hana EL (0.5mV out) to Hana ML on my MoFi UltraDeck table. Running Sutherland KC Vibe MkII phono stage. Max gain on the Vibe is 60db. Hana ML output is 0.4mV. Absolutely love the sound. Sweet, extended treble, vibrant mids, great clarity. Intoxicating sound. Soundstage is immersive. A huge upgrade over the EL. However, the bass is slightly on the lighter side. It’s detailed, textured, but lacking in the impact and dynamics department. Around 5hrs so far on the new ML but I doubt it’s the break in. I’m suspecting the 60db max gain on the Vibe isn’t driving my Pass XP-12 line stage to the fullest potential.
Cartridge is set up as perfectly as I could get it using Dr. Feichert protractor - overhang, VTA, azimuth, stylus force all seem right. Imaging is dead on.
Thoughts?
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The Vibe has 60db of gain and the Pass Labs has 9.3 db of gain for a total of 69.3db of gain. The cartridge output is 0.4mV and the Pass Labs 30.8 has an input of sensitivity of 0.77 volts. Total gain required to drive the Pass Lab 30.8 to full power is 20log (0.77v / 0.0004v) = 66db of gain. Total gain is not your problem, sounds more like cartridge setup and/or cartridge brake-in. |
Yes, I know about the Pass power rating. It's an excellent amplifier and one I would consider if I needed an amplifier. I am focusing on its power rating only because that seems the most likely place to look given the other info you provided. Also, we don't know what is the impedance of your speakers at low frequencies; it could be much lower than the nominal 4 ohm rating. That makes the amplifier work harder. And we don't know the size of your room and your listening preferences. Some like to play music LOUD. My bet is that you really have no problem except to break in your cartridge. |
@lewm I hope you right! That would be the best case scenario. |
- 41 posts total