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The Quadratic MC-1 is a high-end, passive step-up transformer (SUT) designed specifically for moving-coil (MC) phono cartridges. It passively increases the low-level signal from MC cartridges to levels compatible with standard phono preamps, offering two user-configurable gain settings of +28 dB and +22 dB to accommodate a wide range of MC cartridges. Designed by Jam Somasundram, a veteran of Pass Labs and Cary Audio, in collaboration with CineMag, a renowned transformer manufacturer, the MC-1 features hydrogen-annealed laminations, Faraday shielding, and mu-metal cans for superior hum and radio-frequency interference rejection. The transformers are mounted on a PCB inside a steel enclosure to minimize crosstalk and noise. The device is praised for its exceptional musicality, wide frequency response (10 Hz to 100 kHz), low distortion, and realistic imaging, making it a favored choice for audiophiles seeking to improve analog playback without adding noise or complexity. It weighs approximately 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg) and measures about 3.0" x 6.5" x 8.0" (HWD). The MC-1 requires no external power and includes high-quality connectors and grounding options. It is considered one of the most musical and revealing step-up transformers
Analog signal output specifications
Phono stage specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The MC Step Up Transformer MK2's mm gain is 26 dB against the MC1 Moving Coil Transformer (SUT)'s 28 dB, its output impedance 132Ω against 70Ω, its weight 0.907185 kg (2 lbs) against 1.9 kg (4 lbs), and its height 71.9 mm against 76 mm.
The MC16's mm gain is 24 dB against the MC1 Moving Coil Transformer (SUT)'s 28 dB, its output impedance 200Ω against 70Ω, its weight 4 kg (9 lbs) against 1.9 kg (4 lbs), and its height 100 mm against 76 mm.
The Rothwell MCX Moving Coil Step-Up Transformer's mc gain is 20 dB against the MC1 Moving Coil Transformer (SUT)'s 22 dB, its output impedance 100Ω against 70Ω, its weight 0.58 kg (1 lbs) against 1.9 kg (4 lbs), and its height 92 mm against 76 mm.
The MC Step Up's mc gain is 24 dB against the MC1 Moving Coil Transformer (SUT)'s 22 dB, its output impedance 200Ω against 70Ω, its weight 4 kg (9 lbs) against 1.9 kg (4 lbs), and its height 100 mm against 76 mm.
Mitchell A Cotter Mark II
Audio Note (UK) AN-S3
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