Rothwell – MC1 Step-Up Phono Transformer

Designed for Low-Output Moving-Coil Cartridges: Rothwell MC1 Step-Up Transformer Take MCs to Their Full Potential, Features Meticulous Primary and Secondary Loading Networks

Created specifically for low-output moving-coil cartridges and optimized for use into moving-magnet inputs, the Rothwell Audio MC1 step-up transformer features wide bandwidth, low distortion, and carefully designed primary and secondary loading networks to enhance performance and convey beautifully reproduced, ringing-free transients. MC1’s step-up ratio and impedance (100 ohms input; 47k optimum load) make it compatible with a wide range of cartridges while its effective screening against external magnetic fields minimizes hum pickup from surrounding equipment. If you’ve never heard an audiophile-grade transformer-coupled MC cartridge, the compact albeit overachieving MC1 stands ready to change how you hear. 100% Music Direct Guaranteed.

Why You Should Have a Transformer – And Why They Are Rarely Seen

MC1 is designed to raise the output of moving-coil cartridges up to a level compatible with moving-magnet phono preamplifiers. The purpose is not simply to allow moving-coil cartridges to be used with moving-magnet phonostages (most valve designs, for example), but to allow moving-coil cartridges the chance to realize their full potential. Transformers have much more benign distortion characteristics than active circuits and are capable of producing a sublime soundstage with detail and separation unsurpassed by the more common transistor and op-amp alternatives. The reason transformers are so rarely seen nowadays is because they are incredibly expensive compared to transistors and chips. A complete moving-coil phonostage is obviously more convenient than a separate transformer and moving-magnet phonostage, and a moving-coil phonostage made entirely with solid-state circuitry is considerably cheaper to produce than one with transformers.