Pro-Ject Audio is launching two new affordable MC Step Up transformers.
Step up transformers have been around for a while. Those who have dove deep into the vinyl playback world know the great reputation of these devices.
A Step Up transformer is a passive component that connects between a turntable equipped with an MC cartridge and an MM-Phono preamp.
Step-Up transformers do not need external power as they work completely passive and brings the level of the MC cartridge up to that of an MM cartridge virtually noiseless and enabling you to still use your favorite high quality MM phono preamp.
The signal stays clean, with less harmonic distortion, compared to a usual MC phono stage.
MC Step Up Box S3
Compact entry-level solution with dual mono design principle, 1:16 transformer ratio designed in dual mono and gold plated RCA terminals, allowing two cartridge impedance range settings at the back.
The MC Step Up Boxes are made in Europe and available in silver or black aluminium housing.
MC Step Up Box DS3
Premium solution offers single-ended as well as balanced in- and outputs for an optimum signal transmission.
The MC Step Up Box DS3 employs two Lundahl LL1678 high quality audio transformers, switchable 24dB and 30dB transformer ratio (for very low output MC cartridges) and balanced in- and outputs.
Also made in Europe and available in silver or black aluminium housing.
The MC Step Up Box S3 and DS3 works very differently compared to a phono preamplifier. The windings ratio of the trans-former determines the gain factor. As it works completely passive and no external power is needed, no extra power can be produced. The increase in voltage is achieved by a coresponding decrease is current.
The output level of MC cartridges is very low, compared to a MM (Moving Magnet) one it is about 10x lower, which means, you need a special phono amplifier. A higher gain is needed to utilize the signals, which can result in a higher noise level and distortion. The MC Step Up S3 and DS3 Box is the solution.
Lundahl LL 1678 - Balanced In/Out
For the MC Step Up Box DS3 B Pro-Ject use high quality Lundahl LL 1678 audio transformers to ensure every detail re-mains. You can set the transformer ratio (gain) with a push of a button either on 24dB or 30dB.
Use the single-ended RCA, or go balanced with the XLR in- and outputs and benefit from a low noise interference free signal transmission. Switch the in- and outputs via the push buttons on the front.
MC Step Up Box S3 is available for MSRP 449 € (incl. VAT).
MC Step Up Box DS3 B is available for MSRP 899 € (incl. VAT).
At Pro-Ject dealers in November 2023.
