Grado Statement Series


I have recently purchased a Statement Sonata here on the 'Gon. I currently have Rega pre with only 36.5 dbs. of gain. My question: Can I use a step-up transformer to make up the differnce in gain? Or is new(used) pre-amp in my future? My knowledge is lacking and I have searched the archives to no avail.
colitas
Well, Sid, the load on most transformers is set with resistors. This is also the case with active phono inputs. All that is required is the proper resistor. Probably some experimentation would be necessary for best sound.
Well i beleive I have changed my mind again. I will order a K&K audio step-up, considering budget constraints and the fact that the MU has shot leads. I will use the K&K with IC's straight to my Denon Receiver(for now). Whilst chaecking the Bentaudio site, I came across a record cleaner on the side bar. "Ultra sonic record cleaning system. Sounds cool but probably out of my income bracket. I will contact for more info.
Colitas,
John Chapman will make the Mu with longer than 7" leads at no extra charge. Mine are 18". Of course if it's beyond budget then that's academic. You might consider the kit, which saves about $100 and just requires a spot of soldering. Still alot more than the K&K of course. Don't forget to check with Grado on loading before ordering any tranny.

BentAudio's ultrasonic RCM is still in the prototype stage. I'm in the queue for a beta copy for testing, but no word yet on when it will arrive. John's been very busy in the last few months. You can be sure I'll post a review when it shows up. We're very hopeful it will be better than scrubbing with brushes. The price isn't set yet but it should be under $1K, possibly well under.
Thanks Dougdeacon, my turntable is wall mounted about 4ft. away from my receiver. I did find the price of the kits, but still too much for my budget. Keep in mind doug that I still need to CLEAN my lps. I am going to make a custom attachment for my vacuum cleaner. I will check with Grado here in the next couple of days, too.
Check out this VA thread for a mod to any home vacuum cleaner. It was apparently recommended by Brian Weitzel, head of Records Research Labs. I doubt it would rival a RCM, certainly not for speed, but if the budget is tight it could be a cheap and viable stopgap while you stash away the pennies.

http://db.audioasylum.com/cgi/m.mpl?forum=vinyl&n=300556&highlight=vacuum+weitzel&r=&session=

I did something similar while we were deciding which RCM to buy and saving up to pay for it. My jury rig worked okay but Brian's idea looks better (duh!).