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Question about TT Power Connections

Hello,

So I currently have a Denon DP-300f TT with Ortofon 2M Blue Cartridge. It's running fine and I quite enjoy it but now am in the process of researching some new tables as I would like to upgrade.

So while I am researching different aspects of what makes a good turntable, one feature that I thought for sure I wanted and did not need to second guess is the power connection. Up until now, I thought a IEC type connection would be the best for a TT especially since you have the option of getting a better cable in the future.

But I read a comment somewhere (granted it was just one comment but just enough to make me second guess this) stating basically that IEC is not a good option for TT's.

Now I know some really more expensive TT's have a separate power unit but that starts to get into a range that is out of my budget. The max I might spend is up to $2500 and that's getting pretty crazy for me.

I was under the impression wall wart type plugs are not ideal for TT's.

So basically I want to ask what is the ideal type of connection for TT's when it comes to power?

Some of the tables that I am considering is:

- Music Hall mmf-7.3
- Rega Planar 6
- Mofi Ultradeck

Thanks
128x128jay73
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
@mijostyn: So my Linn Sondek is a piece of junk because it has an AC motor and a captive power cord! Really!!
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
For the money I recommend the Pioneer PLX1000. $700. That's what I bought when I wanted to add a new TT to my vintage collection. Excellent build quality - as good as the several-times more expensive Technics. Comes with an audiophile-grade IC and an IEC inlet. Read HR's review in Stereophile from a few years back!
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
And I put a Denon 103R on it! Played an original copy of the Rolling Stones Now! - it ROCKS!!!
williewonka
3,075 posts
 
I’m for the MMF 7.3.

The power supply/cable in turntables of this calibre is perhaps the least important aspect of design.

But since the MMF 7.3 has a DC motor, I consider that a significant advantage

Here is what I consider the most important design points...
  • dual-plinth construction
  • one-piece full carbon fiber tonearm
  • counterweight’s center of gravity is level with the stylus tip, is decoupled from the arm, and acts as a resonance damper
  • completely isolated/decoupled DC motor with 33 and 45 rpm speed controls located in the front left corner of the turntable, thus canceling any potential vibration from the motor/belt to the cartridge
  • motor sits on its own resonance-damping puck
  • precision stainless steel main bearing sheathed in Teflon® for noise-free, fluid operation
  • non-resonant acrylic platter with metal screw-on record clamp and soft felt mat
  • adjustable tip-toe feet with anti scratch cups
  • low-noise, fully-manual belt drive design
Over a 30 year period I have implemented all of the above (and more) on my circa 1981 Rega Planar II, to the point where the only original Rega parts left is now the dust cover and the on/off switch - hey, I saw no need to discard something that actually works well :-)

The MMF 7.3’s high-quality gold RCA connectors and detachable phono cable is not the absolute best method of connecting to the phono stage, but this can be corrected later by installing a one piece harness if desired
- I found it much better than the cable on the Rega RB 250 Arm I tried, but since then, I have also replaced the entire arm with one from Audiomods.
- but a good Interconncet "specifically for phono" is a very good alternative.

The MMF 7.3 also offers an optional Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge with a nude fine line stylus ($440 value) supplied cartridge is properly aligned and mounted is a bones and makes for PLUG & PLAY, quite literally

I would also try playing albums without the felt mat - I happen prefer no mat on my acrylic platter.

Hope that helps - Steve
tablejockey
3,860 posts
 
For that level of turntable, use whatever the manufacturer provides. Best to simply enjoy playing a record. All of those models are fine units.

IF, you're truly obsessed, be concerned with the platter speed consistency of whatever model and get one of these, which is another interesting topic. Personally, I wouldn't bother. Play a record.
https://www.turntableneedles.com/Digital-Speed-Readout-Turntable-Platter-Speed-Tool--Any-Table_p_398... 

Assuming the table is going to be hooked up to appropriately priced components, allowing audio nervosa to set in just isn't worth your time. Good clean records make more of  an impact.
Consider upgrading  the cartridge at some point afterwards, along with the phonostage. Don't forget the main amp, speakers...get my drift?
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