A true balanced phono connection from cartridge to phono inputs to a balanced phono stage nearly always does not need a separate earth ground wire. (3 of my 3 balanced phono stages do not require a ground connection.) Typically, ground floats in such a connection. Typically also a balanced phono will offer XLR inputs. Also, to amend what E wrote, sometimes the TT itself may need to see common ground not just the tonearm, in SE mode.
- ...
- 11 posts total
The Cartridge is a balanced device is not grounded although some designs may ground the shell of the cartridge through the mounting points. It is the tonearm that is grounded. This is by a single wire that goes from the tonearm to the phono stage or preamp. As @theflattire seems to have noticed sometimes it is not necessary to connect the ground and in some instances it might even be quieter without the ground wire connected. |
- 11 posts total