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VM540ML cartridge - what phono preamp is a good match

I recently upgraded to a Rega Planar 3 turntable, and put a Audio-Technica VM540ML cartridge on it, based on reviews and user comments here and on other sites.  The problem is that loud passages with massed strings and/or brass seem to get strident, overly bright and distorted.  That comes up frequently, since I listen to a lot of classical music.

Well, I found that this cartridge is spec'd for 47k Ohms resistance and 100-200 pF capacitance, which is nice to know, but Rega doesn't publish a capacitance spec on its tonearm wiring. My receiver (Sony STR-D515) shows 50k resistance but no info on the capacitance.  So, I suspect the cartridge and the phono stage might be a poor match, producing the strident brightness I'm hearing in the upper range instruments, but can't verify in the absence of specs.

So, my question is, if you are using this cartridge (or a similar A-T VM line cart), what preamp are you using to get good results?  

Thanks in advance!
2ndtrumpet
johnss
566 posts
 
I have the same cart. Lots of choices for phono preamp.

try the EAR 834. if price is too much, then go for the doukmall clone on ebay for 369, then add some PSVANE tubes and becomes quite musical, very detailed, but no harshness.

where you are located?

jmolsberg's avatar
jmolsberg
467 posts
 
Maybe try a different rca cable first? I have listened to the lounge audio and the at540. always sounds pretty darn musical to these ears. 
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,573 posts
 
These AT cartridges are thin and bright for the first 50+ hours.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,573 posts
 
I can’t imagine the Sony has much of a phono stage. It’s a recipe for what you hear. But I think you know that. Look at a Schiit Mani phono or explore their products for a phono and preamp/power amp or look at the Mani with a tube integrated etc. Do you still have the Time Frame speakers? If so, try angle them upwards a small amount so the tweeters fire over your ears.
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
Try a Bellari VP130 tube phono stage into the Sony! USA-made and $225 - $275 on EBay. With this one 12AX7 unit you can easily select different "flavors" of tubes!
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