Dedicated phono-pre for MM only?

Hi, Axel. Given the replies to the original post, I'll let my first question stand: To what level of "top" phono stage are you referring?

The discussion seems to be about phono stages in the range of $1000 to $2000 USD and thus, the Graham Slee Reflex is an example of what you were asking about. (It's clearly designed for MM cartridges.) The Jadis phono stage reference was a bit misleading. Or is the Jadis the "top" level you were originally asking about?

Tom

G'day all, this quite simple to build design is amazing! This is my preferred MM phono preamp. http://sound.westhost.com/project06.htm I have built several of these. Regards, Fap.

Hi Tketcham
>>> To what level of "top" phono stage are you referring? <<<
Simply the best, - second best I already have.

>>> ... is the Jadis the "top" level you were originally asking about? <<<
Raul got this, he is thinking "Essential 3160"...
The Jadis is a still current, just as an example, that's why I mentioned it.
There 'where' other great 40dB stages but ALL gone by now.
I'm really NOT asking about any 'wall-wart' power supply pre's. I thought that was implied. Why even bother to ask then? Like: "Go get one (any one) and call it a day..." :-)
Greetings,
Axel
PS: There are squat (current) 'top' 40dB tube phono-pres out there, and that is already something useful to know. Makes it a proposition to build one's own... a new market gap?

Hi Fap, Tketcham
>>> ..this quite simple to build design is amazing! <<<

OP-Amps, not part of the spec I'm thinking of.

I realize it's maybe time to go into more detail.
Also, the 'Jadis' would be single-ended also not part of the idea, good as it my be.

Rough spec. would be:

- 40dB
- tube gain stage (max. to gain stages)
- 1 JFET gain-stage? Maybe, to get minimum tube-rush/noise
- or e.g. Lundal trannies to get the first 20dB?
- shunt regulated power supply
- differential circuit (XLR out-puts, differential wired RCA inputs)
- no volume control
- floating RIAA (between + and - of the differential circuit)
- one box design (if at all possible, by use of good screening)
- No PCBs, screened silver wire for internal wiring.
- Good,e.g. WBT connectors

That should cover the basics. What tubes to use, trannie, resistors (Tantalum, or?) is dependent on the circuit design and implementation.

Greetings,
Axel

Ah, now we have a reference. What you suggest seems reasonable for a manufacturer to offer for sale. (You would certainly know better than I.) But I think you answered your own question as to why they don't: The lack of offerings is most likely a financial decision, not a design decision. If they don't see the market need for a high end dedicated MM stage they aren't going to bother. I guess they don't read the posts from you and Raul. '-)

A question for you, Axel: Do you think that a high quality SUT or headamp could provide the gain and loading needed to turn a high end MM stage into a high end MC stage? Or does the use of external transformers or headamps degrade the signal too much to be considered acceptable for a high end phono stage?

Tom