Can I use a step up transformer?

Thank you all for responding. I knew I would learn some things by asking this question and I sure have from these responses. I really like the idea of not adding an additional component and more cables. Also, Things are dead quiet right now at these volumes ( I hate to inject anything that would impart noise). I like what Al and Yogi are saying about the volume knob being no big deal. To be honest, I play mostly everything around 12:00 position and pushing to 3 is really more than adequate, I guess i’m just being a little paranoid. Thanks again for putting me at ease.


Matt M

There is some downside to some step up transformers.

They may be susceptible to hum, due to magnetic interference.

Also turning the volume way up (without a step up) may increase the noise level.

Mattmiller,

Ive auditioned the Chinook not long ago. Using a .5mv cart, I couldn't figure out why  I had to crank the volume past 12:00 o'clock for a listenable volume, and I heard zero life coming out of the speakers.

I realized I didn't check to see if the dip switches were set for the high gain 60db setting.

Whilie I'm no audio expert, I can't imagine a  .2mv  difference making that much difference as  your preamp also provides a couple of DB's of gain as well. 

Just another thing to check before throwing in the towel and opening your wallet.

I found the Chinook to be a nice sounding unit. Quieter than my tubed Fosgate, at louder than normal listening levels-past 12:00 o'clock. The Foz however, edged out the Chinook with a more "realistic" presentation. 

Regarding matching carts and phono stages if you really want to see what they can deliver you should not stop on a basic level. This matter is not plug & play or just connect two units or  avoid using cables and connections.  Here it starts to become a really exciting adventure. It's a pitty that some audio afficinados never will cross the bridge...but this is the way it is.

Dear @thuchan : Could you explain a little:   What do you mean with: """  matching carts and phono stages.. """  and """   should not stop on a basic level. """

Thank's in advance.

Regards and enjoy the music,
R.