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Dynavector Karat 17D3---minimum gain needed?

I've got my eye on a used Monolithic Sound PS-1 phono preamp, and I'm wondering if the maximum gain this unit produces (53 dB) is sufficient for my Dynavector Karat 17D3 cartridge, which is a low-output MC which kicks out only 0.3mV. Dynavector's literature states this cart needs a phono stage with at least 60 dB of gain, but I'm wondering if I can reasonably get away with less. Or if I'm possibly already getting away with less---I'm currently using an old PS Audio Phonolink from the mid 90's with no problem. It's switchable between MM / MC, but has no provision for setting gain, although it does let you set resistance. I don't have the users manual so I don't know how much gain it applies in MC mode, but I've noticed that 47dB seems to be a standard fixed gain on many phono preamps out there. So, what do the moving coil cartridge experts out there have to say? Thanks, Will Herrera
will_herrera
jependleton
155 posts
 
I see I need to stick to trying to do one thing at a time. It's a Conrad-Johnson EF-1 phono stage with the DV/6Z stepup transformer. I think the DV75 Mk. II is a much better match with the Karat 17D3.

Best wishes.

Jim Pendleton
Osage Audio Products, LLC
will_herrera OP
40 posts
 
Thanks for the responses everyone! In my original posting I made an inaccurate statement about 47dB being a standard fixed gain on many phono preamps; I realized afterward that the 47 figure actually applies to the 47 ohm impedence common to many phono preamps---my error. As for the Dynavector P-75 Mk. II that was suggested, I did have one in my system for about a month, but sold it when I realized that not only did it not perform any better than what I already had (the PS Audio Phonolink) IMHO, but the noise floor rose to an unacceptable level when I tried it in Enhanced mode. Thanks, Will
mantisory
95 posts
 
I am using the 17d3 with an ARC PH3SE which has 54 or 56 dB gain...I like it fine, although it is pushing it a bit - i may try a stepup and see how it goes...
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