No. 26 - MM or MC board?

Fernando, when using a step-up transformer, the output of the transformer is designed to be plugged into the active phono section with a 47k ohm loading(the Levinson phono input should be loaded at 47k ohms).

The actual cartridge loading then is to be set at the transformer inputs, by way of a switch, or plugging in resistors, or whatever method your unit uses for loading.

Loading a cartridge at the transformer requires you to use about 1/2 the normal specified loading impedance, due to the ratio of the transformer windings.
When used with a transformer, the DL103R likes a load between 30 ohms and 40 ohms, but you can try some loadings a bit outside that range if you want, to suit personal taste. I use 40 ohms on my Cotter transformer with a DL103R.

The characteristics of using a transformer as a step-up device define how the input and output loading is done, so you must use a load of 47k ohm on the Levinson phono input, and between 30 ohms and 40 ohms(approximately) on the transformer input loading. If you deviate much from this formula, you will be affecting the sonic performance of the cartridge, and the way it should be loaded for best sound and internal damping characteristics of the cartridge motor.

While I understand Raul's point about transformers, I also have used many myself, and find that good ones can sound excellent as part of the analog chain. If you already have this unit and can put it to good use, it will serve to save you some money and give additional flexibility to which cartridges you can choose for your system.

Johnnantais, I'm happy that you have had the opportunity to try out the DL103 cartridge, and that you liked it.

I also liked it, but when I tried the DL103R, it sounded much better(to my ears, in my system). I think it is well worth the extra money spent.

I bet it sounds great on your various Lenco projects!

One day, I promise you that I will try a Grado woody on a Hadcock, just because you recommended it.

Twl - Thanks, I will perform this change settings this same afternoon and let your know.

Fernando

Thanks for the compliment Tom, and yes, the Denon certainly sounds great on the Lenco, if I were going to make absolutely sure the Lenco would hit new ears with irresistable impact, I would suggest the Lenco/Rega/Denon DL103 combination, which works so synergistically together (and for roughly the price of a Grado Sonata!). As to the Hadcock/Grado, I've been remiss and haven't even tried it yet, having it mounted on other low-mass tonearms for the moment to such great effect I was not moved to finally mount the Hadcock. But now that you remind me...

I can understand Raul's reasoning on the subject of transformers, but must admit that the fact a world-class transformer designer has seen fit to make one especially for the Denon DL103 makes me want to try one out (and I'm aware that the subect of transformers versus active devices generates as much controversy as the tubes vs solid-state debate!). Let's remember that the electronic genius Matti Ottala (or Otala) was a Finn, and that several world-class speakers are also made in Finland. For such a small country (population 5.5 million) it is very productive in terms of audio equipment! Kippis! So far though, I've always used active step-up devices, which transmit natural dynamics very well, if you want to consider alternatives Fernando, am working on restoring/tweaking an older model I have now. Does anyone make a simple active step-up anymore?

Jean, when using that DL103 on the Rega tonearm, you simply must try my DIY HiFi mod with the 7/16 ounce bullet shaped fishing weights on the ends of the bearing axle nuts. You can just Blu-Tack them on for testing purposes, if you want.

You'll really love the difference in dynamics and impact that it makes, when the lateral effective mass of the Rega arm gets up into the preferred mass range for the DL103. I originally designed the HiFi mod when using a DL103 and DL103R, and believe me it makes a helluva difference for the better. I think you'll flip at how much improvement a couple of well-placed weights can make.

I've had mine on my arm for over 2 years now, and at least 50 others with OL or Rega arms are using this mod, and I have NEVER had a single complaint about it. However, I have gotten many emails with over-the-top raves about how they never believed that it would make so much difference.

I strongly suggest trying it, because you are not really hearing what that cartridge can do yet. It only costs pennies to do, and is done in 2 minutes.

This is a "for real" improvement of pretty large magnitude. If you use the Blu-Tack, you can easily remove the weights if you want to use a high compliance cartridge on the arm. The lateral effective mass with the HiFi mod installed is too much for high compliance cartridges and causes mismatch, but with low compliance cartridges like a DL103, it is a match made in heaven.

See the photo of my analog rig here, with the HiFi mod installed on my OL Silver tonearm. The HiFi mod is the pair of bullet-shaped things sticking out on each side of the bearing housing.
[url]http://cgim.audiogon.com/i/vs/i/f/1039227977.jpg[/url]
Notice the DL103 mounted on the tonearm.

Let me know how you like it.