Phono Stage Amp

There is an Audio-Technica Signet MK10T step up for sale now @ A'Gon.

Not certain if the 1/15 ratio is enough for your low output cartridge, but others here should know.

If so, it would be an inexpensive experiment.

DeKay

Move the turntable and see how the system react will not cost anything.

MC input Frequency response RIAA/IEC ±0.2dB Input sensitivity 300µV in for 300mV out (at 1 kHz) Input impedance 47KΩ THD at 1 kHz 88dB “A”-wtd. Line level outputs 1 pair RCA (phono) left and right 300mV rms nominal

No dip switches.

Are you suggesting Bob’s Sky 30 SUT? I looked it up and am reviewing it. It seems very reasonable and affordable. My MF is 10+ years old.

Ah, that indeed appears to be a different version than the "M1VINL" we were looking up. This one’s spec’d 300uV to 300mV is better (60dB versus 56dB), but still too low for that cartridge IMO.

I have a couple of the Bob’s Devices Sky units, along with many other SUTs too. I almost always prefer a good SUT to an active MC stage, sometimes significantly so. The Sky is a good one, reasonably priced. There are better, but they cost more. Yes, I recommend them with a few caveats:

1. You must carefully match the SUT ratio to your cartridge. 20 - 30 is good for a 0.25mV cartridge. 30 in this case if you keep the M1, because it could use the extra gain.
2. You must use a low-capacitance, short (less than 1m) cable run from the SUT to your MM phono stage (set to 47K load). Bob sells a good 0.8m one for $400.
3. Always run a SUT into an MM stage (or MM mode). NOT into MC!

Don't the 805's have multiple taps; which ones are you using?