This is the way I run my Zyx 4D and my Benz Ebony L before it. I have a JLTi phono preamp which allows me to do this. I have been satisfied with this pre since buying it new. Yet I may be in the market for a new (Different) one. However some I have seen may not offer this ability. One that has great reviews also has the loading and gain all tied together. Not sure about Herron but it may be out of production. Not sure about others.
The question comes with @Atma-sphere comments on loading and circuit stability. He contends that the loading damps (stops) the cartridge cantilever from moving as freely as it was designed (my words) And it is better IF you can run with no loading. But that requires a stable circuit which not all have. Apparently my JLTi has a stable circuit because I have been running LOMC's this way for a 10-15 yrs.
That said, should I require this attribute to my next phono preamp? And might I be better off to send the JLTi to Joe Rasmussen (Allen Wright's partner) for upgrade to Pre and new Power supply?. That will be the cheapest and that is likely to be the step I take. However the question still exists. If the damping is as per Ralph's assessment, it would seem that the stability of the circuit is of greater importance than the ability to have a lot of loading options with unstable circuitry. Another question, Is loading a band aid for a circuit which is not at an optimum? I am not an electronic tech so I am not looking to stir the pot but for my own understanding Thanks
I also have the
Herron VTPH-2A and don't use the loading plugs with my Zu Denon DL-103. They are out of production, so your only option now is to find a used one.
47 kohms is for moving magnets. I would use what is recommended by the cartridge manufacturer. My hana el calls for >400 ohms, I use 430. Not certain why you would exceed the value by 10's of thousands.
@artemus_5 I just talked to him the other day. He said he had wound down production and made no mention of a new one on the horizon. Try calling. If you can find one of his phono stages, they are excellent.
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.