Rothwell MCX 1:10 MC step-up transformer with Lundahl transformers, 20 dB gain and 100 ohm cartridge load for moving coil playback. Read more.
The Rothwell MCX 1:10 is a high quality moving coil step-up transformer designed for listeners who want to use a low output MC cartridge with a standard MM phono stage. In the Rothwell range, the MCX is aimed at cartridges that need useful voltage gain but not the higher step-up ratio of models intended for very low output designs. Its 1:10 turns ratio provides 20 dB of voltage gain, making it well suited to moving coil cartridges in the 0.35 mV to 0.9 mV output range, including many options from Benz Micro, Clearaudio, Koetsu, Lyra, Ortofon, Audio Technica and Van den Hul.
The Rothwell MCX uses transformers supplied by Lundahl of Sweden and shares the same high quality core approach used in Rothwell’s more strongly wound designs. The cobalt based uncut amorphous strip core material is combined with carefully considered winding geometry to help reject hum, reduce unwanted capacitance and maintain wide bandwidth. With a specified bandwidth of 8 Hz to 75 kHz with a 10 ohm source impedance, the MCX is engineered for clean transient reproduction and low distortion. The cartridge is presented with a 100 ohm load, while the transformer is optimised for a 47 kOhm plus 150 pF phono stage input.
In a well matched vinyl system, the Rothwell MCX 1:10 can be an elegant upgrade between an MC cartridge and an MM phono input, keeping the signal path passive while increasing level by a factor of ten. It is especially relevant for cartridges with an internal impedance below 20 ohms and outputs higher than many traditional low-output MC designs. For best results, position the unit away from power supplies, transformers and strong electromagnetic fields, and use good quality interconnects with secure grounding. Match it carefully to your cartridge and hear what the MCX can bring to your analogue setup.
