SX-1250 and Denon DL-160

Panotaker

Panotaker

Well-Known Member
I am thinking of getting a DL-160 cart for my Technics 1100A turntable, only problem is, according to the sx-1250 manual, this cartridge wont work on the phono input without some sort of MC matching transformer or a head amplifier. Is this true and if it is, where do I get one and how do I go about hooking one up. My other option is to get a separate phono preamp and use one of the line inputs. I don't really want to go that route since it involves spending even more money and giving up one of the precious line inputs on the receiver. Is there a way to turn one of the phono inputs into a line input or turning it into a MC phono input? Thanks.
Ralph
 
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The DL-160 should work just fine into the MM stage on the SX-1250. It is a high output moving coil cart. The specs on it say 1.6mv of output, but, from experience, it's higher than that.
 
Thanks for the info, but have you tried it? I don't want to spend $180 to find out it doesn't sound right. Thanks.
 
I use a DL-160 on a Denon DP 60L TT with my SX 1250 with no problems at all. This is a very nice cartridge you will not be disappointed with the sound.
 
It will work alright. Its output is not that much lower than a standard Moving Magnet´s for all practical purposes.

You may just have to turn the volume knob up a point or two.
 
Okay, thanks everyone for the info. Now lets say I still wanted to get a MC matching transformer or a head amplifier, what exactly is that and where do you get one.
 
Panotaker said:
Okay, thanks everyone for the info. Now lets say I still wanted to get a MC matching transformer or a head amplifier, what exactly is that and where do you get one.
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Do you mean to pair with the DL-160 or to pair with a different cart? I'm asking because the DL-160 doesn't require an SUT or head-amp. In fact, I doubt it would sound right at all with either.

You would need an SUT or head amp to use a low-output moving coil, like the Denon DL-103. These units "amplify" the relatively low signal produced by a LOMC cart so that they can be heard through a standard phono stage.
 
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I can attest that the Denon 103 really needs a SUT or phono amp. I tried with my Kenny 700C and I could barely get any sound. Unless you plan to get a LOMC do not spend your money on unnecessary components.
 
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