Description
ORTOFON ST-80 MC Step-Up Transformer 90th Anniversary of BirthDescriptionWhile the performance of MC cartridges and their accompanying step-up transformers have been the focus of much attention, I have felt that the appearance of several products focusing on demagnetization for these cartridges and transformers deserves attention. Although the effects of these techniques can certainly be felt when they are applied, we have felt that each companys product has its own superiority or inferiority, i.e., that there is no definitive version, but we have finally realized a technique that we have been longing for. The technique used is Magnetic Domain Matrix Signals (9 types of demagnetization signals to eliminate magnetic distortion), which was announced by Sheffield Labs, a world-renowned high sound quality label in the United States, and is used to neutralize unwanted magnetization of the core (winding frame of conductors), which forms the core of the step-up transformer. The core (conductor winding frame), which is the core of the step-up transformer, is neutralized. In order not to damage the step-up transformer, the gain is optimized down to the phono level, and the frequency response is very similar to the inverse RIAA (equalization curve) engraved on the vinyl record, resulting in maximum demagnetization without any adverse effects or stress. The 9 types of demagnetizing signals, while dividing the frequency range, each with a different signal spectrum, provide total demagnetization over the entire audible range, and the treated equipment has achieved a remarkable sound quality improvement at a level where it is no exaggeration to say that it has been revived, We are determined to adopt this transformer for all of our MC step-up transformers. We would like you to know that this is a great sound quality benefit that can never be obtained elsewhere.This listing is for an Ortofon ST-80 MC Step-up Transformer 90th Anniversary Model Super Permalloy = Best/Optimal/Expensive Left/Right Independent = 2 Transformers Step-up Ratio: 22x Rugged and sturdy housing. The original box/instruction manual/warranty card (no signature) is included. The warranty card is considered invalid. The current model is ST-90, but it is a model with XLR terminals attached to ST-80, so those who enjoy using conventional RCA cables may not like the sound quality as much. For those who enjoy using conventional RCA cables, I think this ST-80 is sufficient because it has no extra functions and therefore has good sound quality.The worlds first stereo MC cartridge, the SPU (Stereo Pick-Up), was introduced in 1959, the year after the recording and reproduction standard for stereo LP records was decided in 1958. At the time, Pioneer was the leading manufacturer of cutter heads, the heart of a cutting machine, and it is said that the cartridge was developed by mobilizing all of Pioneers outstanding technological capabilities. Since then, the cartridge has been held in awe as a pioneer who paved the way, and has established an honorable reputation as the original instrument, and has produced several derivative models, which can still be purchased new. This is the reason why the models with a structure in which a coil is wound around an armature using magnetic material are often referred to as orthophone type with respect. According to common belief, Japans DENON and NHK started the development of a cartridge for NHK-FM stereo broadcasting based on the model of the SPU, and completed the DL-103 five years later in 1964, which was put on the market in 1970. Although they are different in design concept, they share the same common feature of being living legends. In this sense, I believe that both of them will live on as familiar and eternally famous instruments.The low impedance and low voltage (= high current) that are the main characteristics of the companys cartridges, commonly called Ortofon type, means that current-to-voltage conversion using a transformer or the like is essential. The retro STM-72, a small transformer built into the SPU headshell, casually laid out on the base and housed in a cylindrical case. The STA-41 / STA-6600 / STA-384, also made in Denmark, with a transformer made by Jorgrn Schou (JS). The T-30/20/10 and its MKII, and the T-2000, which was the culmination of those days, are all products that are familiar to us. The high-end transformers of this company can be classified into two types: the built-in type, such as 3000/5000/7000/7500, which started with T-2000, and the chimney type, such as T-100 and T-6dB, represented by SPU-T1, which protrudes from the chassis. The ST-70 is the former and the ST-90 is the latter, and each has different characteristics. The ST-80, which is the item in this sale, was a step-up transformer that was introduced to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the birth of Ortofon, but it was sold continuously for quite a long time, so it was not a limited edition product as is often the case. At that time, the ST-80 made a spectacular debut as the definitive MC transformer from Ortofon. The core of the step-up transformer is made of 78% Super Permalloy, which is known as the best and most expensive material. The sound of a transformer depends on the performance of the core, since the transformer once converts and stores magnetic energy in the core and then discharges it. Permalloy is a soft magnetic alloy made of nickel and iron, which has very high permeability and easy magnetism transmission. It is an ideal material for the core of acoustic transformers, and has maintained an unshakeable position as the core of high-end, high-performance transformers in particular. Permalloy is classified according to its nickel content, and the highest grade, 78% Super Permalloy, is very expensive. We have increased the volume of this luxurious material, increased the size of the transformer core, and changed the number of coil windings to create a new MC transformer. A 10mm thick cylinder is machined from an aluminum block, and the transformer is encased in this aluminum cylinder, encased in a fully magnetic Permalloy case. The chassis=1.5mm thick / case=2mm thick, the sturdy and robust steel casing is dependable, and the special mold casing provides a tight shield against external noise. The total weight is nearly 1.4kg, and even with cables connected, the weight provides a great sense of stability.The frequency response is completely flat in the range of +/-2dB up to 10Hz 100kHz.The MC/MM switchover switch (operated from the front panel) allows easy switching between the two without the need to change connections, a feature that is truly appreciated by those who use both MM and MC. The successor model, ST-90, no longer has this function. ShippingShipping by FedEx or EMS.International Buyers - Please Note:Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyers responsibility. Please check with your countrys customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.Thank you for your understanding.
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