The solder pads (red arrow) are where the cable connection typically breaks. Proper adjustment of the cable strain relief (blue arrow) should prevent future cable disconnection.
After completing a few more projects, the replacement EC234 heating element arrived.
Fortunately, I had a newer BA60 barrel nut in my parts bin because the original barrel nut didn't fit. The WTCPS is back in service, albeit, as a backup to the Hakko FX-888D soldering station.👏
Back to the Ortofon...
As warm as Ike Quebec's tenor sax is a fitting description of how this MC step-up transformer sounds. If I'm deciphering it right, it's also echoed in the translation of the Stereo Sound article pictured above.
This MC step-up device is definitely NOT for audiophiles who analyze the minutest resolution of detail in the soundstage!
However, for those who love music, the Ortofon STM-72 complements the classic SPU or an ultra low output moving coil cartridge like the Fidelity Research FR1 MkII. It may even be the antidote to harsh sounding low Z/low output MC cartridges. That's IF, it can be acquired in the $150 price range. Beyond that, go for an Altec 4722 (or maybe the Cinemag equivalent?), which offers two levels of gain (1:18 + 1:36), wider bandwidth + better overall sound, IMHO!
Those are some TINY little transformers! I suspect the high asking prices for these little SUTs is a function of brand cachet and the "vintage & vinyl revival"...
ReplyDeleteNice job reviving the soldering iron! No more cold solder joints! ;-)
Thanks!
DeleteI think the vintage/vinyl crowd is best served by Redboy MC step up transformers - https://www.flickr.com/photos/152614846@N06/albums/page1/ -👍🍻😊