Lyra Helikon

Yes, but isn't there a disadvantage to running the lowoutput through a stepup transformer?

Gladstone, if the device is quiet enough it shouldn't be a problem. I think?!?

Sure, it's quiet. But is the sound as good going through a builtin stepup device in a phono stage. I wonder.

Many years ago I owned a tube preamp that required an outboard step up device for the low output cartridge that I was using. I tried a number of different outboard transformers including a Denon, a Cotter and finally a Koetsu which was by far the most musical of the group. In the end I preferred the sound of the cartridge going straight into the preamp even given the higher noise level and loss of dynamics. IMHO, I would reccommend going with the higher output Helikon rather than using a step up transformer; however, if you must use a transformer, use the one made by Lyra.

Thomas, I subscribe to Fcrowder's views, both 1st & last. The reasoning follows:

A)The lower the output the higher the (pre) amplification required, i.e. an extra "step" to the standard 47 RIAA equalisation.

B)The lower output cartridge, "outputs" better sound.

C) We are faced with a balancing act: do we place the onus on the phono OR on the cartridge -- i.e. where is the least danger of compromise, pre side or cartridge side??

Otherwise stated, will the extra info from the lower output be audible or degraded thru the pre? OR will my phono perform best with the higher signal -- so, at least, I'll get all of what the higher cartridge outputs (which is marginally less than its low output mate)...

It's usually the latter, IMO!

Cheers.