I have a Halfer DH110 preamp and a Grado X+ cartridge. The volume is much lower than when I am using the CD or Tuner inputs. Does anyone have a suggestion as to fixing this besides buying a new preamp or just turning up the volume? Thanks!
Audioclassics.com sells a Mcintosh stepup device for 300 or so - it is very versatile and will give you what you need to increase gain with variable load capability.
Cford- As others have noted, just turn up the volume. The volume pot in the Hafler is rather inexpensive, so the higher the volume control position, the less it's in the signal path. I wouldn't recommend a stepup transformer or pre-preamp with your cartridge. If you enjoy the sound and the noise floor is acceptable, then don't worry about the volume control position. Enjoy the music!
Grado cartridges are not moving coil nor moving magnet; they're a hybrid design known as moving iron, basically a variable reluctance generator design. Some of their models are available with different-level output options, low, medium, high. Don't know what your X+ is set up for; give them a call to find out. You might be able to get a different model that's more suitable to fit your existing equipment.
I don't think the problem is the cartridge. I put in my old Audio Techica cartridge and its level is about the same. I think its the 34dB gain of the phono input to the Halfer. Any way to increase its gain?
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