2. analog
  3. 1157508919

How much fine tuning required on cartridge loading

I am getting more seriously into analog, and will be buying a new phono pre-amp to replace the Harman Kardon receiver I'm currently using as a phono stage. Some (like the EAR) have a simple MM/MC switch, others (like the Rhea) allow for fine adjustment of resistive and capacitive loading. I'm wondering how much better the sound can get if the loading is fine tuned, or if MM/MC is good enough. Cartridge is currently a hi-output MC (attracts a screwdriver to the body, can play loudly thru MM stage w/ pre turned up), I believe an old Benz - black body with a gold V on the front, with what looks like a figure 8 knot above it.
honest1
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
To those experimenting with different resistor types, we tried seven or eight on our BentAudio Mu stepups.

In our system, to our ears, Vishays and all other film resistors had one audible flaw. Because of their high surface area:volume ratio, very high frequencies were largely uncontrolled. Even went we took resistor values low enough to audibly attenuate middle highs and upper mids, true high frequency response remained excessive.

We preferred carbon resistors, like Kiwame's, for their even and balanced effect at all frequencies. YMMV of course.
snake64
10 posts
 
Thanks Dougdeacon,

Some further investigation on the net confirms your findings with the Kiwame's although other - more expensive - brands like Riken Ohm, A. Bradley and Caddock are mentioned as contenders too.
I guess it's, as allways, a matter of taste.

Lots of experimenting is lying ahead.

Thanks again.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Snake64,

My apologies! I meant to recommend the Riken Ohms.

We used the cheaper Kiwame's to hone in on optimal values, then bought Rikens (and others) to hone in on resistor type/brand.

The Rikens were definitely the ultimate winners, for us. Sorry for the mis-info, shouldn't have posted from memory about a year-ago experiment.

Doug
snake64
10 posts
 
Howdy Doug..,

Thanks for your correction.
I've honed in with real cheap resitors.., the Kiwame's ( and simular priced brands ) will be the next step up.. maybe I'll give the more expensive brands a try.., I doubt the benefits of a pair of $ 6,- resistor in my system but.., who knows.

Robert
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