Phasemation T-2000 MC Step-up Transformer

Description

Phasemation T-2000 MC Step-up Transformer

A monaural structured step-up transformer for high sound quality MC cartridge which can educe the music reality and even the artist’s passion.

Product Outline and Concept

A balanced receiving of the cartridge output has been acknowledged by many people who seek high sound quality. The T-500 which was released in 2014 was made possible to have a balanced receiving and has a high reputation but there was still more room for improvements due to the results of continued research. We sought for even more sound quality and overwhelming improvements of liveliness and panoramic stage and developed the greatest step-up transformer which we can think of. The coil winding structure was reexamined and pursued a high sound quality and in addition, we succeeded to absolutely rid the left/right sound quality interference by structuring a monaural unit box.

We will release Phasemation’s entire unit, the high sound quality MC step-up transformer T-2000.

Phasemation T-2000 Owner’s Manual

Main Features

Balanced Transmission Supported Input Portion

When generating power through a cartridge coil, a balance operation is conducted essentially. Transmitting this signal with an unbalanced connection results in not only the merit of balanced type being damaged or lost but also external noises directly affecting sound quality.

The basis of wiring at the time of connecting by using a balanced phono cable is shown in Fig. 1. The signal is transmitted from the cartridge coil to the transformer coil through the push-pull balancing circuit, and the shield earth covers them. Therefore, the negative effect caused by external noises can be blocked. In addition, the full balanced connection (No.2 pin hot) is structured for the cartridge side by connecting the center of the primary coil of the transformer to the minus point (signal GND) of the secondary coil.

A general structure of connecting a step-up transformer for MC cartridge by using an unbalanced phono cable is shown in Fig. 2. At the unbalanced connection composed of the signal wire and external shield, the shield side is exposed to external noises. Therefore, it results in not only being easily affected by the noises but the signal wire is also invaded by the negative effects.

Newly Developed High-Performance Core Materials

0.2mm thick permalloy materials which were used previously were reexamined and developed into the new “extremely thin super malloy core material.” In combination with the large core shape, it reached a superior characteristic of very low frequency linearity and high efficiency boosts (low loss), which brings about a detailed atmospheric expression.

The Adoption of the Best Coil Winding Specifications

The transformer coil wiring specifications were reexamined and adopted to the best fitting value designing specifications, considering the matching of the transformers and impedance values of the cartridges in use. In combination with the new coil winding structure, this brings about a transformer of high resolution and a wide range of sounds. Additionally, due to the adoption of high-purity copper wire onto the secondary coil winding, it contributes to a fuller sound with better longevity throughout all ranges. Hand-made construction enhances the frequency response, phase characteristics, and reduces phase distortion within the hearing range, resulting in a clearer static acoustic image.

External Induction Hums and Unnecessary Vibration Removed

To handle external induction hums, the chassis base is a solid steel sheet plated with copper, and the case cover includes an induction hum shield. The magnetic shield material placed near the transformer provides a double layer structure. The rising transformer is made of high-damping rubber, which floats from the main unit and prevents the spread of external vibrations. As with the control amp CA-1000, a 20mm thick slant aluminum panel is used for the front panel. Below the unit box, a wood base is added, and by mixing it with other materials, unnecessary vibration is effectively removed, resulting in a playing sound with a good S/N ratio.

High-Quality Parts Used

Rhodium-plated terminals of FURUTECH products, known for high quality and sound performance, are used for the I/O input terminals. Additionally, TA0C high-carbon cast iron insulators are adopted for the feet, contributing to the improvement of sound resolution.

Caution: The XLR or RCA inputs can only be used one at a time. Using both simultaneously may cause noise generation.