Step Up Transformers….Are they Worth the Trouble?

Good point, I am focusing on ‘custom’ SUT’s that are designed specifically to mate my choice of the cart’s. 

@lalitk OK- keep in mind that if you have an SUT designed for a particular cartridge, if you change out the cartridge, you may have to change the SUT too or figure out the right loading. This will also be true to a lessor extent if you change the tonearm cable, since the capacitance of the cable is part of the loading of the transformer. 

Its these little details which are really the downfall of analog, not the performance or the sound!

So if you get a custom transformer built, ask the manufacturer for tips for loading it for best performance. If he tells you there's no such information or you don't need it, consider looking elsewhere.

@atmasphere

Thank again for your insight on SUT’s. I am aware of limitations with SUT’s as far as compatibility with another cartridge. I am willing to put up with extra cost of securing another SUT’s once I change my cart. I am approaching my re-entry into analog with a singular purpose, the very best sound out of my investment.

Let’s see how far and deep I land within my means :-)

@lalitk If the very best sound is your goal then I'd would not limit my search to SUTs only! There are plenty of phono sections that can run LOMC cartridges straight in and IMO, some offer noticeably more clarity and bandwidth. 

@atmasphere 

Would you please care to elaborate on ‘phono sections’ options / brands. If this would entail switching out to a new preamp with stellar phono section then I am not ready to do that just yet. I made a mistake of selling my Shindo Monbrison preamp from Ken Shindo era that had a stellar MC phono section. I may get back to all Shindo system but that means changing out speakers…may be down the road.

I have an amazing synergy between Accuphase Integrated and Tannoy Canterbury’s, so the idea is to built upon what’s in place. 

I agree that the investigation can be broad, others have shared in such a broad investigation.

I don't agree the Math only is the defining information that should create a shortlist of options to investigate. The end sound and how it impresses is the one element that really matters. To discover end sound, foot work and listening is what is required. A built in MC Stage is out there to be discovered that does sound very impressive, a SUT or Head Amp' used in conjunction on the same Phon' can create a end sound that has that extra level of appeal. The added devices in the Signal Path will need to audibly assessed for what is removed or added.

My selections have added to the end sound, to my liking preference. Nothing of attraction is perceived to be diminished to the point it is a detriment to the end sound, through adding the additional Selected Cables and Selected Device.

I have experiences where the above has not occurred and devices being investigated have been rejected for the impression had on the end sound. 

The following Links will show another respected individuals experiences and assessments of their own SUT investigations. There will be more info to be assessed resulting from others who are contributing. An open mind and broad experience become a great aide on the SUT / Head Amp' subject.  

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/review-of-quadratic-mc-1-sut-with-comparisons-to-other-suts-2

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/hagerman-piccolo-zero-new-transimpedance-head-amp