MC phono stage without transformer?

Tpsonic,
I currently have a MM phono stage (tube) with 50dB gain. I am using a cart with 2.6mV output. But I want to experiment with Low Output MC (like a Lyra Skala).

Why not get a step-up to see if you like the LOMC cartridge in your system. You can get a K&K Audio Lundahl step-up for about $350 (built) and it's easy to use with a plug n play resistor feature so you can easily change loads on the cartridge.

There is nothing wrong with a transformer, but the Herron phonostage uses a jfet to boost the gain to 66dB. There are plenty of others that don't use transformers.

Viper_z,

You will want to use a sut. Depending on the gain of your pre your MM has pretty good gain, but it will sound closed in and tipped up. The sut will allow you to load the MC properly which will fixed the sound. It will also give you back more fine volume control.

K&K is a good recommendation.

Also, last time I talked with John Chapman of Bent Audio he was planning to start shipping the new MU sut replacement this July. If you are not familiar, the MU has been one of the highest regarded suts for several years. People don't usually part with them, even if they have an active MC gain stage.

Dan_ed,
Do you mean the $875/pair as shown in this website?
http://www.bentaudio.com/parts/mu.html

Clio09
I'll call up K&K to see what they have... if it only cost $350 then it's a no brainer to try.