Balanced T-kable from LP12

[StellanH]

There is a few phonostages out there offering possibility of a balanced connection to cartridge, for example the Uphorik.

Have anyone compared this with a normal unbalanced RCA connection? (both with same type of T-kable)

 

[JBC]

Yes, went from a T-kable to a balanced T-kable on an Akito/Krystal combination into a Uphorik, and I noticed a definite improvement. To me it sounds more dynamic, open and lively. Have heard an even bigger improvement going from the old-style el-cheapo RCA cable on an akito to the balanced cable with Uphorik (and a dynavector 20X2 on a different deck). Same trends. n=2 and two positive results.

I'd do the swap again.

 

[sktn77a]

Are you sure its balanced topography and not just an XLR connector?

 

[StellanH]

Thanks for sharing the experience! I will also try it out when I have the opportunity.

 

[Ron.P]

Hello. My name is Ron. I'm a devout cable believer. Can I get an Amen and also, has anyone tried phono cables from other manufacturers on their LP-12? I'm sure Mogami have done a wonderful job, but there are other cable designers/manufacturers who have other designs and manufacturing methods. Yes? No?

 

[Dasher]

I use a Linn T-Kable, an Audio Origami Phono Cable and an SME Cable. The T Kable is the latest version but phono terminated. I also tried the XLR terminated one into the Uphorik but can say that I noticed a difference and so went with versatility (my Uphorik is my only xlr equipped phono stage). I didn't take the XLR T Kable apart but, , like sktn77a above, I'm not convinced that it is balanced - just XLR terminated. I cant say that I can hear a difference by using the AO one either - but what I do notice with the AO one is that the LP12 suspension is much easier to set up and get to bounce correctly. The SME one is 49 years old and it is what it is...

I do also have an older "T Kable as originally fitted to the Akito 2 (a black one). The silver ones have always sounded better than this one. t could be the cable, but it could also be the quality of the RCA interconnects. This one is currently on mt dad's LP12 and one day I shall swap it for an AO cable.

 

[StellanH]

Seems to me very strange to use XLR inputs on Uphorik without connecting inverted phase from cartridge to the designated cold pin on XLR. Kind of pointless not to use that extra pin.