Looking for some input on a project I am working on. I know this topic has been discussed elsewhere on the forms, I have dredged the archives of diyAudio for answers, but have not found anything definitive, so here I am.
I am working on a new vinyl setup with two projects being worked on simultaneously.
I am designing a from-scratch MC phono stage, using Lundahl LL9226XL step-up transformers, triode-strapped D3a for the first gain stage, passive "all-in-one" RIAA EQ, triode-strapped EF86 for the second gain stage, and FET source follower output buffer.
The second project is a restoration of a vintage Thorens TD 125 MKII turntable. I am rewiring the tonearm.
I have the opportunity here to wire the tonearm for a balanced output and the phono stage SUT for a balanced input, I am trying to determine if it is beneficial to do so.
While common-mode noise rejection on the balanced wiring will be increased, the noise contribution from each signal wire will be increased, seems to controversial whether or not it is a sound design decision.
For those experienced using both connections, what have been your findings? Thanks.
I am working on a new vinyl setup with two projects being worked on simultaneously.
I am designing a from-scratch MC phono stage, using Lundahl LL9226XL step-up transformers, triode-strapped D3a for the first gain stage, passive "all-in-one" RIAA EQ, triode-strapped EF86 for the second gain stage, and FET source follower output buffer.
The second project is a restoration of a vintage Thorens TD 125 MKII turntable. I am rewiring the tonearm.
I have the opportunity here to wire the tonearm for a balanced output and the phono stage SUT for a balanced input, I am trying to determine if it is beneficial to do so.
While common-mode noise rejection on the balanced wiring will be increased, the noise contribution from each signal wire will be increased, seems to controversial whether or not it is a sound design decision.
For those experienced using both connections, what have been your findings? Thanks.
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I take it you are using the default tone arm --the SME 3009 series 11 ?
In the original state there is no separate earth wire and the tonearm leads are earthed at the phono ( RCA ) sockets -do not use cheap sockets .
The turntable ground also earthed at the phono /RCA sockets , its very easy in this system to accidentally provide ground loops .Thats the normal standard , I personally don't know any user using a balanced setup but I am sure a Thorens user here can update me on that.
Have a read of though-
Hum problem: Thorens TD-125 and SME vintage tonearm grounding scheme conflict? - John Marks - Vinyl Asylum
In the original state there is no separate earth wire and the tonearm leads are earthed at the phono ( RCA ) sockets -do not use cheap sockets .
The turntable ground also earthed at the phono /RCA sockets , its very easy in this system to accidentally provide ground loops .Thats the normal standard , I personally don't know any user using a balanced setup but I am sure a Thorens user here can update me on that.
Have a read of though-
Hum problem: Thorens TD-125 and SME vintage tonearm grounding scheme conflict? - John Marks - Vinyl Asylum
I've got a TD125 Mk II with the original Thorens TP-16 arm and an MC cartridge.
Two years ago, having built the "Non-plus ultra Phono" from Linear Audio Vol. 12, I rewired the arm connections for differential transfer. Changed also the cable towards the phono preamp to Mogami Quad, terminated with an XLR EMI connector.
There is no ground connection between the TT and the preamp any more, and everything is dead silent.
Don't quite understand why you think there will be more noise with the differenital connection.
Regards,
Braca
Two years ago, having built the "Non-plus ultra Phono" from Linear Audio Vol. 12, I rewired the arm connections for differential transfer. Changed also the cable towards the phono preamp to Mogami Quad, terminated with an XLR EMI connector.
There is no ground connection between the TT and the preamp any more, and everything is dead silent.
Don't quite understand why you think there will be more noise with the differenital connection.
Regards,
Braca