[levlhed]

Here's an equation I'm trying to determine, realizing there may not be a 100% right answer...

I've got a DL-103R to run into a Bobs Devices Cinemag SUT.

I'm considering a SS Phono Pre by Vista-Audio, the PHONO-1, which can be customized (load and gain) to your specific cart.  While I *could* just have it made specifically for the 103R, since I already have the Cinemag (which many feel is a match made in heaven) I'm planning to just have the PHONO-1 done as a standard MM pre.

However, since I have the option to customize, I am wondering if it makes sense to actually have the PHONO-1 made for what is reported as the ideal loading for a Shure M97xE?  That is the only other cart I can foresee using on my rig (with a Jico SAS) anytime in the future.

If I remember correctly, the ideal loading for the M97 is 62k ohms (?).  The burning question is if that would have a NEGATIVE effect on the Cinemag SUT?  If it is not cool, then I'd rather optimize for the DL-103R/SUT than the Shure.

I barely understand all of the variables involved, and maybe I'm making much ado about nothing significant....but I'm pretty sure someone around here can help me understand the pros/cons so that I can come to a better-informed decision!

Thank you

[levlhed]

alright, I can actually simplify my question to the following:

A standard 47k load will show up as 52ohm at the DL-103R
Changing it to 62k will change the load @ the cart to 67ohms.

Will the change from 52 to 67 ohms change the perceived sound of the 103r? In what way? To what degree?

[Toka]

Just to keep things simple/easy going forward I would just opt for the standard MM loading, but thats just me. Should you want to use something other than the Shure you won't have to worry about messing around with it.

Nice choice of SUT, but the way!

[levlhed]

thanks.

Yes, in the end I went with the standard 47k loading.  Bob says his SUT is designed to be "perfect" @ 47k, and while the stock Shure M97xE may sound best at a higher load, putting the Jico SAS into it brings it's ideal load back to 47k!  So I opted for the standard load.

[dangerbird]

I went the DIY Cinemag with my 103R and a Dynavector P-75-- to say that I am pleased is an understatement,,BTW-- I got the 103 while waiting for my 20 XL to be retipped,,and I did give it a listen with the Cine's--WOW--good luck with your rig--the Cine/Denon is a sweet match.

[Wayner]

I actually have built a cartridge loading test box and I can put virtually any load on any cartridge up to 100K. So far, after about 40k loading, the differences are so small (with MMs @ 47K ohm), that for all practical purposes, offer no change in performance. As you go down the loading value, the high end does start to get chopped off, as one would expect.

Wayner