7
PHONO SETTINGS
Once you have connected your turntable to the amplifier, you
will need to configure the Phono settings to ones that match
your cartridges parameters. It is always best to refer to your
cartridge manufacturers literature to ensure the most accurate
setup. Consult your dealer for additional guidance.
In the absence of full cartridge documentation, please follow these guidelines
Initial setup
Sensitivity
There are four sensitivity levels available; MM, MC (low), MC (mid) and MC (high).
Check what type of cartridge you have. If you are uncertain, set the dial to MM. If you have an MC cartridge, then
set the dial to MC (mid).
Now listen to a piece of music with which you are familiar. Adjust the volume control to a comfortable listening
level, if the volume control is much beyond the half way point, you should probably consider increasing the
sensitivity level, if the volume is immediately very loud, then choose a lower sensitivity.
Some very high output MC cartridges work well using the MM setting—no harm will be done by experimenting
with settings.
Resistance
Normally, the ideal aim is to match the amplifiers input impedance to that of the cartridge, this will ensure
maximum signal transfer, and minimise noise (hiss) - however, if you do not have this information (remember you
can check the manufacturer’s website), you can safely experiment with any of the possible values—again, tune by
ear to get the most pleasing sound. Most MM cartridges are 47k, high output MC cartridges also tend to benefit
from a high resistance setting, however low output MC cartridges are invariably low impedance, suggesting a low
resistance setting. Please experiment with this setting, as the minor adjustments can make worthwhile
improvement to the overall performance.
Capacitance
The effect of the capacitance setting is most obvious at high frequencies, but can be quite subtle. The values
chosen are affected by the design of cartridge, but also by the connecting cables—so there is no absolutely
correct setting, and experimentation is recommended until you find a setting that suits your set-up and personal
preference. Low impedance designs tend to be largely unaffected by capacitance settings, but high impedance
designs, and especially MM cartridges can be greatly affected. Start by playing a selection of tracks you know well
and adjust the setting until you find one where you feel the best balance of detail and musicality are achieved.
Mono
This selector blends the right and left channels together. This can help create a more accurate ‘mono’ signal when
playing back a mono recording using a stereo cartridge.
REMEMBER, YOUR EARS ARE THE FINAL ARBITER - WHAT SOUNDS CORRECT TO YOU IS THE CORRECT SETTING.
