SUT for the DIYers
Posted: Wed Aug 30, 2006 5:26 am
Here is an inexpensive SUT for the DIY crowd. Why an SUT transformer? Let’s look at the basics.
For us low output moving coil users, an SUT is essential. We have to remember that .2mv to .4mv range of cartridge output is not enough to present proper voltage for the phono head amp to drive. A regular MM phono stage needs at least 360mv. Ever wonder why sometimes when you compare your CD player’s output through your system to that of your vinyl, the CD sounded to be more dynamic and clearer, sort of? One of the reasons is that the CD player is putting out an output voltage of normally 2 volts. Compared to LOMC output, it is unthinkable to compare. One more thing to consider is that if you are using LOMC, the total gain of your vinyl playback (phono amp and SUT) should not be less than 62 db; this is excluding the preamp gain to get the most out of it.
As mentioned above, the phono head amp requires voltage to drive. The LOMC cartridge for that matter is a poor voltage source but a good current source, requiring an SUT to increase the gain (in db) and also transforming the current created by the cartridge into voltage required by the phono head amp.
For a whopping $96, the Cinemag is a best buy for the DIYers. Cost less than half of the most common alternative, the Lundahl 9206, but no pcb is required. Try this SUT and you will be surprised by the sound. Better yet, for those not using any SUT, here’s the solution, what are you waiting for. Cinemag is a mic input transformer developed for the pro audio industry. Remember, if the mic cannot record at its best, then the playback afterwards will be ruined. Enjoy. There is one other thing besides SUT and cartridge output to maximize your vinyl playback, you LOMC user you. Cartridge loading. That my friend, requires a whole new thread to discuss and very complicated to understand.
Good day…..Good luck……Godspeed.
For us low output moving coil users, an SUT is essential. We have to remember that .2mv to .4mv range of cartridge output is not enough to present proper voltage for the phono head amp to drive. A regular MM phono stage needs at least 360mv. Ever wonder why sometimes when you compare your CD player’s output through your system to that of your vinyl, the CD sounded to be more dynamic and clearer, sort of? One of the reasons is that the CD player is putting out an output voltage of normally 2 volts. Compared to LOMC output, it is unthinkable to compare. One more thing to consider is that if you are using LOMC, the total gain of your vinyl playback (phono amp and SUT) should not be less than 62 db; this is excluding the preamp gain to get the most out of it.
As mentioned above, the phono head amp requires voltage to drive. The LOMC cartridge for that matter is a poor voltage source but a good current source, requiring an SUT to increase the gain (in db) and also transforming the current created by the cartridge into voltage required by the phono head amp.
For a whopping $96, the Cinemag is a best buy for the DIYers. Cost less than half of the most common alternative, the Lundahl 9206, but no pcb is required. Try this SUT and you will be surprised by the sound. Better yet, for those not using any SUT, here’s the solution, what are you waiting for. Cinemag is a mic input transformer developed for the pro audio industry. Remember, if the mic cannot record at its best, then the playback afterwards will be ruined. Enjoy. There is one other thing besides SUT and cartridge output to maximize your vinyl playback, you LOMC user you. Cartridge loading. That my friend, requires a whole new thread to discuss and very complicated to understand.
Good day…..Good luck……Godspeed.