Bottlehead Forum
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Thomasbhartwell on August 29, 2022, 03:26:35 AM
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Hi folks, relative newbie here.
I’ve got a wonderful Eros2 phono stage which I’m using with my Rega P3/Elys turntable. If i change to a different turntable with an MC cartridge (e.g. Rega P8 with an MC cart) will the Eros still work or will i need to mod it?
Tom
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Most MC cartridges have a much lower voltage output than MM cartridges, so they need around 10-30dB more voltage gain, depending on the particular cartridge. Step-up transformers are the quietest way to get that gain, so Eros has suitable mounting holes for some SUTs, or you can get them in separate boxes.
A few "high-output" MC cartridges are available, which need no extra gain.
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Thomas, can you advise what the make and model of MC cartridge you are looking at for the Rega turntable?
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Dear Folks; I outfitted my VPI table with a Haniwa high output MC cartridge($450 on the Bay) and am enjoying vinyl as never before from my all Bottlehead system. Haniwa also makes a Lo-output version of the same cartridge, which may sound even better if you have step-up trannies to support it. My custom Eros phono-pre was built by Paul Birkeland, and uses MQ all-Cobalt B-7 output transformers.
Cheers, Hank Murrow
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I have used multiple cartridges with the Eros. Both Hi output and low output MC's as well as MI. Sumiko, Hana, and Soundsmith. All are great. To date, I love my Hana ESL (Elliptical Low Output) with an external SUT. I am sure the SL would be a step up. No pun intended. Right now I am listening to a Soundsmith Boheme. (Discontinued because it was not supposed to be that good.) Seriously it blows them all away. At least until I switch tables. Yes I have more than one. Honestly, you might want to look at any of the exemplary 2.5 Mv cartridges. There are many of them out there.
I also have a Sumiko Black Bird (low output) waiting in the wings. I purchased it brand new when it was being discontinued and on sale. I then added another discount by using their trade in discount program.