More gain for c-j PV-5

Bob Grega · « **on:** 8 Jul 2004, 01:19 am »

John,
I'm new to this and have aquired a used conrad-johnson PV-5 pre-amp, I would like to use a low output m/c cartridge, .2mV, I am interested in your MU-MC step up trans. how much gain would you recommend to configure in the MU in regards to this combination and does the MU device offer silver wiring?
Thanks, Bob

John Chapman · « **Reply #1 on:** 8 Jul 2004, 02:02 am »

Hello!

The gain you would need depends also on the rest of the system. If you have it all running with a higher output cartridge now post with the details and also what level you typically run the pre-amp to for loud listenning.

There are some general rules. Most the time the 1:10 setting works out best. This gives 20db of gain and still leaves open a nice wide window for load adjustments - from 470 ohms on down.

The 1:20 is an option but shrinks the loading window to from 120 ohms on down. Since lots of cartridges recomend (and like) a load of 'around' 100 ohms the 1:20 ratio does not offer much room to adjust higher. The recomended loads for cartridges are ballparks and likely some playing around with loading can optimize the sound for your system - that is why a larger window for loading is nice to have. Also keep in mind that even though 1:20 sounds like a lot more gain than 1:10 it is only 6db extra gain - a few steps on a typical volume knob. Unless the system is just making it gain wise the 1:10 will likely give enough level

Since 1:10 still leaves open a nice window for loading the 1:5 setting is rarely used.

Returning to your setup - The .2mv cartridge is on the lowish side (0.35 to 0.5 is more common). This does not present a problem but we should look further into your system (and how much gain you get from the rest of the components) to choose a step-up ratio that would make sure you can play loud enough and still load the cartridge properly.

Many Thansk!

John

John Chapman · « **Reply #2 on:** 8 Jul 2004, 02:05 am »

Hello!

Silver wiring is availiable on the MU when we have stock of the wire to make them. My preference is for copper as it is a bit more full bodied than silver but I have sold a few silvers and folks seem happy with those. Since the price adder for silver is so high and since the best option might just well be copper I tend not to suggest silvers. I think there may be an old post comparing silver to copper tx103's that will go into more detail sonically.

Thansk!

John

Bob Grega · « **Reply #3 on:** 8 Jul 2004, 03:12 am »

John,
Thanks for the quick reply. I'm using a Dynavector 10x4 now about 2.mV now. Amps: Wavelength Gemini's w/2A3s, Reference 3A di capos, REl Storm sub, room dimensions 20'x12'x8' with this setup system plays loud at 10:00 0n pre amp volume control. Have tried a Dynavector Karet .23mV I think, in system and have to set volume about 3:00. Bob

John Chapman · « **Reply #4 on:** 8 Jul 2004, 04:02 am »

Hello!

You made it easy - good info! Sounds like you have plenty of level with the 2 mv cart so a 0.2 cart with a 1:10 step-up will give you lots of level. The volume should be really close to that you get with bthe 2mv direct.

Nice system you have. I like 2A3's - using some on my shop system right now! Also like 3A's and the rel subs are great too.

Thanks!

John

Bob Grega · « **Reply #5 on:** 8 Jul 2004, 04:36 am »

Thanks John, I'll email you offline.
Bob Grega