Phono 1:1 Input Transformers - info sought...


I was looking at the Brinkmann Edison Mk II and their site refers to a 1:1 input transformer... What is the purpose of this and when would you utilize it? I understand about Step-up's but this isn't really that... one can turn on/off apparently...

I have searched abit and have not run across this on the web... does another manufacture employ this? Searching the forum did not provide me with an answer... maybe I am poor at searching...

Here is an excerpt..

Three Balanced RCA inputs, two of which also feature XLR connection, accommodate the most elaborate systems. Each input is independently adjustable for gain (16 steps from 49 - 73 dB) and impedance (12 steps from 50 - 47k Ohms). Adding selectable mono/stereo, phase/invert and a 1:1 input transformer of superb quality, Edison provides a level of fine-tuning unsurpassed by any other phono stage. A remote handset maximizes user convenience.

Thanks,

Steve

sc2

Some of whats discussed above is for balanced output transformers. A phono cartridge is a balanced source provided wiring allows. Sounds to me like the input transformer is used to provide isolation ?

You’re correct about cartridges but most have cartridges wired single ended at the phono stage. I puzzled over this myself. In certain circuits there can be DC offset at the input stage. Resulting DC current across the coils of an LOMC cartridge could damage it. The transformer would protect the cartridge from DC. Ask Brinkmann.

A SUT can he wired as 'balanced' input with transformer ground floated...1:1 could too.