Ortofon ST-7
Ortofon dual mono phono step-up transformer, designed for MC cartridge users seeking a clean signal and good channel separation.
Description
The ST-7 is a step-up transformer designed by Ortofon to accompany a moving coil (MC) cartridge. Placed between the cartridge and the phono amplification stage, it adapts the very low output level of this type of cartridge to make it usable by a conventional phono preamplifier, without resorting to an additional active gain stage.
Its construction relies on internal wiring connected to gold-plated terminals, designed to limit losses during signal transfer. The sandwich winding used in its manufacture aims to improve high-frequency reproduction, for a sound described as clear and open across the entire spectrum.
The ST-7 uses the dual mono design favoured by Ortofon, this time with individual shielding applied to each channel. This physical separation of the two channels aims to preserve the stereo image by limiting interference between the two channels. The transformer also incorporates protection against ambient noise, reducing external disturbances likely to degrade the signal.
This transformer is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts equipped with an MC cartridge who wish to preserve the finesse of the signal from their turntable, particularly those seeking refined stereo separation and controlled high-frequency response.
What to check before buying used
The internal windings and the soldering of the gold-plated terminals are worth checking by ear: a poor contact or micro-break results in a loss of level, an unbalanced stereo image or a missing channel. The individual shielding of each channel must remain intact and firmly attached to the casing, otherwise hum and background noise reappear, particularly near a turntable motor or a mains transformer. The condition of the input and output connectors should also be checked, as these are prone to oxidation after several years of storage.
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