Gain and Loading

Gain: given the cartridge output, 40-50dB would be indicated. If you have a normal cdp, try to get similar amplitude (i.e. ~2V entering the pre section.

Loading: >1000 is hardly specific. While 47k ohm is standard for MM, it would be best if you could:
a) ask Dyna for their recommendation
b) ask Dyna for the cartridge inductance. Then you can compute the resistive loading as: sq rt L/C (or go to Hagerman's site to do it).

Failing all that, try 43-46-50dB gain & choose which gives the best frequency extension and THEN go down from 47k until you find the best setting...

What exactly is loading? I have an okay understanding of gain since I've been trying to roughly calculate the dB I'd need to achieve normalization with my CD.

Tfk, what preamp are you using? I've been searching for a decent preamp that has at least an adjustable gain. I doubt I need a high-gain preamp since the cartridge I'm using is a 6.5mV MM.

Tfk, I think you're fine as-is. Just plug that cart into your phonostage. Likely you won't have to change a thing.

jh

Tom: Depending on the rest of your system, 50 db of gain may be putting you into an overload situation. If you can do it, I would suggest getting as close to 42 db as possible for gain and starting with the 47K loading. From there, you can experiment up or down with loading, but I would certainly dial the gain down from 50 db as a start and at least try that out. I would think that the sound should be improved with the lower gain.

Thanks for all the responses so far.

Hdm, how do I know if I'm in an overload situation? Distortion at musical peaks? My next adjustment down is to 44db, so that might be a good setting, huh?

Cheers.