Mordante et al, I apologize for not defining the acronym. I thought most analog aficionados would know about LCR RIAA circuits. But here goes a definition:
In analog history, nearly every commercial phono stage has been based on using RC filters to achieve RIAA equalization. An RC filter is one that uses resistors and capacitors to achieve each of the three 6db per octave "shelves" in the frequency response that constitute an RIAA correction. Most such RC-based RIAA networks require the use of a fairly high value resistor in series with the phono signal coming out of the first gain stage. And some require the use of at least one capacitor in series with the signal, as well. The advantage of an LCR network, used to achieve the exact same RIAA correction, is that it places only an inductor in series with the system, which has very low DC resistance compared to the resistor mandated in RC type RIAA networks. Capacitors and resistors are used as well, but all of these are in parallel with the signal, connected to ground. Theoretically that does less "damage" to the signal, where "damage" can mean different things to different audiophiles. Proponents of LCR type RIAA correction circuits believe that they sound better, pure and simple. However, implementing such a network presents a lot of problems to the designer. Thus = expensive.
Yes, JFrech, I knew that Allnic (in the H3000 and H1500) make LCR type phono stages, and I knew about Zanden. Did not know about Ypsilon being LCR type. All of these are VERY expensive. (Well, the Allnic H1500 is not too far off the charts.) Have you heard any of these 3? In fact, I would love to hear from anyone who went from a very fine RC type phono stage to a top of the line LCR type. I would also like to hear from anyone who has actually listened to any LCR type phono and who has an opinion about the advantages based on real world experience.
