Desired load is below 40 Ω. Consider using a primary-side load for very low target impedances.
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The MC1 Moving Coil Lundahl Step Up Transformer Preamp provides you with a moving coil SUT unit, built, tested and matched to your cartridge offering a range of Lundahl transformers and loading options to meet any need.
Features
Premium Lundahl transformers
High quality RCA connectors
Gold plated PCB
Selectable ground lift
Selectable step up gain
Configurable loading
High frequency load
Built and testedDelivery
We stock most transformer options for the MC1, however sometimes there may be a 4-8 week lead time on transformers from the factory. If in doubt send us an email.
All MC1s are hand built and tested by hand, made to order.
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Lundahl Transformers Lundahl Transformers in the MC1
Transformer Category Model Step-Up Ratios Standard Transformer LL1678XL 1:16, 1:32 LL9226XL 1:10, 1:20 Nickel Core Transformer LL1963 1:3, 1:6 LL1933 1:8, 1:16 LL1943 1:16, 1:32 Amorphous Core Transformer LL1961 1:3, 1:6 LL1931 1:8, 1:16 LL1971 1:12, 1:24 LL1941 1:16, 1:32 Transformer Types
Standard Transformer
The standard transformer option use either the cutoms made LL1678XL for 1:16 & 1:32 step up ratios, or the LL9226XL for 1:10 & 1:20 step up ratios. Don't be fooled by the term "standard", these are still exceptional moving coil step up transformers.
Nickel Core Transformer
The Nickel Core option uses either the LL1963, LL1933 or LL1943 Lundahl transformer, depending on your gain requirements. It is available in 1:3 & 1:6 step up ratios (LL1963), 1:8 & 1:16 step up ratios (LL1933) or 1:16 & 1:32 step up ratios (LL1943).
The Nickel core transformers are a premium moving coil step up transformer and are a lower distortion alternative to the amorphous cores.
Amorphous Core Transformer
The Amorphous Core option uses either the LL1961, LL1931, LL1971, or LL1941 Lundahl transformer, depending on your gain requirements. It is available in 1:3 & 1:6 step up ratios (LL1961), 1:8 & 1:16 step up ratios (LL1931), 1:12 & 1:24 step up ratios (LL1971) or 1:16 & 1:32 step up ratios (LL1941).
The amorphous core transformers are probably the best moving coil SUT available on the market.
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Shipping & Import Tax Information
MC1 ships free worldwide from our workshop in the United Kingdom.
Region Typical Delivery Time Import Taxes & Charges United Kingdom 2–4 business days No additional charges. UK VAT is already included in the price. European Union 3–7 business days Typically local VAT plus a courier handling fee. United States 5–10 business days Import rules change frequently. Most customers pay little or nothing, although small customs or handling charges may occasionally apply. Australia 7–14 business days 10% GST may be payable on import. Japan 7–10 business days Approximately 10% consumption tax may be payable on import. Import taxes and customs charges are determined by local authorities and are the responsibility of the customer. If you are unsure, please contact us before ordering and we will be happy to help.
Lundahl Transformers
The MC1 is compatible with all Lundahl moving coil transformers, available in nickel and amorphous core materials.
Configurable Loading
6 parallel secondary resistors and a zobel load allow for countless loading options. Change settings on the fly to discovery which load is best for your cartridge, and ears.
Primary Loading
Experiment with both primary and secondary loading, ideal for very low impedance cartridges.
MC1 Load Calculator
Optimise your moving coil cartridge loading
Results
Required Resistor (Theoretical):
N/A
MC1 Resistor:
N/A
MC1 Input Z:
N/A
Voltage Gain:
N/A
Output Voltage:
N/A
Instructions
- Select your transformer model and step-up ratio
- Enter your phono input impedance (default is 47kΩ)
- Enter the desired load impedance for your cartridge
- Optionally enter cartridge specs for gain predictions
- Click Calculate for loading recommendations
Notes:
- When the desired load is below 40 Ω, you’ll see an advisory suggesting a primary-side load. Calculations still run normally.
- "No resistor required" - Phono input already provides suitable load.
- Cartridge output is based on 5cm/s, if your cartridge differs you will need to scale the value.
Moving Coil Step Up Transformers explained
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