Thoughtful guides to hi-fi equipment, system building, and what actually matters in audio.
Headroom is one of the least discussed yet most critical aspects of phono stage performance. Even when gain and loading are correctly set, insufficient headroom can cause distortion, compression, and a loss of dynamics. This guide explains what phono stage headroom actually is, why moving coil systems demand more of it, and how to ensure your system has enough margin to handle real music without strain.
Noise is the most common complaint when using moving coil cartridges. Hiss, hum, or background noise can undermine the benefits of MC playback if the system is not correctly matched. This guide explains where noise in MC systems comes from, why moving coil cartridges are more sensitive, and what practical steps actually reduce noise without compromising sound quality.
Gain is one of the most misunderstood aspects of moving coil playback. Too little gain results in noise and flat dynamics, while too much gain can cause distortion and reduced headroom. This guide explains how MC gain works, how to calculate how much you actually need, and how cartridge output, phono stages, and step-up transformers all interact.
A step-up transformer (often called an SUT) is a passive device used with low-output moving coil cartridges to increase signal voltage before it reaches a phono stage. While simple in concept, step-up transformers affect gain, loading, noise, and overall sound character. This guide explains how step-up transformers work, when they make sense, and how they compare to active MC phono stages.
Moving coil cartridge loading affects tonal balance, clarity, and noise performance, yet it’s one of the most misunderstood aspects of vinyl playback. Many listeners change cartridges or phono stages without ever adjusting load settings. This guide explains what MC cartridge loading is, how it works, and how to choose the right setting for your system.
Moving coil cartridges are often divided into low-output and high-output designs, each with different system requirements and sonic trade-offs. While both use the same fundamental principles, their output level affects phono stage compatibility, noise performance, and overall system matching. This guide explains the differences and helps you decide which type makes sense for your setup.
Moving magnet and moving coil cartridges represent two different approaches to turning groove movement into music. While both can deliver excellent results, they differ in design, cost, output level, and system requirements. This guide explains how moving magnet and moving coil cartridges work, their pros and cons, and which type makes sense for different listeners.
A worn stylus doesn’t just sound worse—it can permanently damage your records. Knowing when to replace a stylus is essential for protecting your vinyl collection and maintaining sound quality. This guide explains how long a stylus typically lasts, the warning signs of wear, and why replacing it on time matters.
Correct cartridge alignment is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of turntable setup. Even the best cartridge will underperform if it is poorly aligned. This guide explains why cartridge alignment matters, the key adjustment points involved, and how to set up your cartridge for the best sound with minimal record wear.
Stylus Shapes Explained: How Needle Profiles Affect Sound and Record Wear
The cartridge is the component that turns the physical movement of a record groove into an electrical signal your system can amplify. Despite its small size, it has a greater influence on sound quality than almost any other part of a turntable setup. This guide explains how cartridges work, the main types available, and how to choose the right one for your system and listening habits.
Belt drive and direct drive are the two most common methods used to spin a turntable platter, and the choice between them can influence sound, usability, and long-term ownership. This guide explains how each system works, their strengths and weaknesses, and which type of turntable suits different listening priorities.
The debate between vinyl and digital audio is often framed in terms of sound quality alone, but the real differences run deeper than technical measurements. This guide compares vinyl and digital playback across sound, convenience, cost, and listening experience, helping you decide which format actually suits the way you listen to music.
Turntables appear simple on the surface, but the process of turning a record groove into sound is surprisingly complex. This guide explains how turntables work, breaking down each stage of vinyl playback so you can understand what actually affects sound quality and why setup matters.
A phono stage is one of the most misunderstood components in a hi-fi system. Some amplifiers include one, others do not, and many turntables cannot function properly without it. This guide explains what a phono stage does, when you need one, and how to choose the right option for your system.
Turntables occupy a unique place in modern hi-fi. They are neither the most convenient nor the most technically perfect way to listen to music, yet they remain deeply appealing to many listeners. This guide explains who turntables are for, who should avoid them, and what actually matters when choosing one — cutting through nostalgia, marketing, and myths to focus on real-world listening.