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In Reply to: RE: ART9 vs ARTXI posted by bill_stevenson@bellsouth.net on January 17, 2024 at 15:21:52
> Choose on the basis of the amount of gain you need for your phono stage. You literally can't make a bad choice.
I agree!
I'm just saying that if you have a phono stage that can handle an ultra low output moving coil, the XA version will probably sound a little better than the other higher output cartridges.
I discovered this many years ago when I bought the original Ortofon MC-2000. Its rated output was only 0.05-mV and I had to use the T-2000 step-up transformer to get enough gain. However, it turned out to be the best sounding cartridge I've ever owned. Since that time, I've always made sure my phono stage was capable of amplifying ultra low output moving coil cartridges. I've owned several others over the years and they all seemed to sound better than higher output moving coil cartridges.
Happy listening!
John Elison
Follow Ups:
John and Bill, I know nothing about step up devices; the ART9 I just traded for is my first low output cartridge. I do love the phono stage of my Amp. At the level of equipment I have (if it's relevant, I have an Artemiz arm and Totem "the one" speakers), what do you think is the device I would want to get cost, at a minimum, or what would be your recommendations for ones to explore?
You might want to talk to Bob Sattin at "Bob's Devices" for advice. I own one of his older 1131 step-up transformers and it sounds very good to me. However, I understand he has newer units that represent an improvement over the one I own. A good step-up transformer isn't cheap, but if you want top quality sound, you have to spend some money.
On the other hand, if you were satisfied with your AT-ART9, you will probably like the ART9XI even more. It might be best to stick with the standard low output ART9XI rather than buying the ultra low output ART9XA.
Good luck,
John Elison
Thanks John - I'm very happy you and others have praised the 9xi, as I was extremely nervous about giving up my ART9; It is far and away the best cartridge I've ever owned, the best previously being high output Benz Micros and a high output Adcom/van den Hul (made for Boston Acoustics). Should get the new one soon.
The ART9xi is better than the ART9 out of the box - thanks for the recommendations. Jim O
As I already wrote any MC cartridge stands a good chance of improvement when coupled to a step up transformer. There are good ones available from several companies: Ortofon, Bob's Devices, and Denon come immediately to mind as popular safe choices. There are a lot of options and this is something that can be safely purchased used. Take a look at ebay and audiogon for starters. The current issue of TAS has an evaluation of the current Ortofon unit. Expect to pay $500-$600 for a good used one. If you are going to acquire one, then I agree with John's recommendation that you go with an XA.
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