So lemme get this straight.

A Marantz 2325 does not have the phono preamp needed for a low output MC.

Let's say I then buy a low output MC, and buy a phono stage for it.

Does this new phono stage then REPLACE the Marantz phono preamp, in other words, do you plug your TT into the new stage then that plugs into, say AUX input, or does it still plug into PHONO? :confused:

Is the Marantz phono stage decent, Ortofon makes a "booster" for receivers w/low output MC, or just bypass the marantz stage altogether???

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It plugs into your phono input.

Kim

Kim G - You are either right or wrong, depending on which of jfine's questions you are answering.

A stand-alone phono preamp definitely does not plug into the phono inputs. The purpose of a phono stage is not just to amplify the small signal from the cartridge. It is also to match it to the RIAA curve. Two problems with plugging a phono preamp into the phono inputs on another preamp/integrated amp/receiver. First, you could well blow the phono stage that you plug it into. The other is, even if it works, you will be trying to match an already RIAA matched signal to an RIAA curve. If you do manage to do this and it doesn't blow the phono stage you've plugged it into, make sure to report the sonic results here. Inquiring minds and all that.

Which Ortofon booster are you talking about? Need some details. If it is an MC step-up transformer, then Kim G has it right. Plugs between the cartridge and the phono input on your Marantz. If it has an RIAA curve in it then plugs into the Aux or Tape Input or whatever, but not the phono input.

As B2 point out a Step up device for low outputs plugs directly into your marantz phono stage.

If you get a dedicated MC phono stage it will plug into an Aux input.

One other alternative is a High output MC cartridge which needs nothing and can usually be run just fine with a standard MM phono stage

Yamaha, it's the Ortofon T20MKII MC Step Up Transformer, booster I'm talking about. Thanks for the info, I sort of expected what you said.

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