How do I tell how much output I get from my cartridge, I mean if I wanted to put a figure to it. For example, what do I look for if i look at it on a scope?
Another question, what frequency is the gain of a phono preamp taken at because obviously that makes a big difference?
Another question, what frequency is the gain of a phono preamp taken at because obviously that makes a big difference?
Line level would be more commonly around the 800mV mark if you are lucky. CD players output higher than was typical for line level. I believe they are 2V peak not RMS.
Personally I prefer to work in basic muliplication factors rather than dB for this sort of thing as it avoids any conversion errors.
Personally I prefer to work in basic muliplication factors rather than dB for this sort of thing as it avoids any conversion errors.
CD line level spec is 2.0Vrms. (2.828Vpk) Old USA standard (or IHF) line level was considered to be 707mVrms. (1Vpk/0dBu)
I have never bothered to match my diy line level components to either specification, I don't normally switch back and forth between sources in normal use, and a lot of my program material has pk levels that vary all over the place forcing me to reset the volume when I change sources anyway.
The key issue is to make sure that you have sufficient gain available overall to allow you to achieve the maximum spls you desire with the program material (and source) you listen to having the lowest average levels.
Of course your opinion and mileage may vary.
I have never bothered to match my diy line level components to either specification, I don't normally switch back and forth between sources in normal use, and a lot of my program material has pk levels that vary all over the place forcing me to reset the volume when I change sources anyway.
The key issue is to make sure that you have sufficient gain available overall to allow you to achieve the maximum spls you desire with the program material (and source) you listen to having the lowest average levels.
Of course your opinion and mileage may vary.
I can see how this could be a problem if not done right. I think all the above information will help me in doing this and it will also give me a clue where to position my source selector. I don't mind if I'm a little out in the end, I just hope I don't need half a volume control rotation or more to match the sourceskevinkr said:The key issue is to make sure that you have sufficient gain available overall to allow you to achieve the maximum spls you desire with the program material (and source) you listen to having the lowest average levels.
Output is 4mV at 1kHz at 5cm/s
The max groove velocity spec for an LP is 30cm/S. At that level the output of your cartridge will be 24mV @ 1KHz. Most phono preamps operate at around 40dB of gain at 1KHz for levels roughly equal to that of CD players. LP mastering can vary quite a bit though, so you may wish to fine tune it a little.
Oh. OK, would you say then that my 4mV/1k/5cms sounds typical enough to be happy with 40dB for CD levels?Most phono preamps operate at around 40dB of gain at 1KHz
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