EMT SRX 5/10 Step-Up Transformer

The EMT 5/10 is a passive step-up transformer built for the low-output moving-coil cartridge — including, and especially, the EMT cartridges themselves — feeding a phono stage that expects a moving-magnet-level signal.

Two ratios are offered on a front-panel switch. The 1:5 ratio provides 14 dB of voltage gain and is the natural match for the higher-output EMT generators. The 1:10 ratio provides 20 dB of voltage gain and is the answer for a lower-output cartridge or a customer running a longer phono cable into the following stage.

The internal windings are pure 4N silver. The magnetic core is an extremely low-loss material chosen for high resolution and minimal noise contribution — the transformer, in a properly executed passive design, adds nothing that was not in the groove.

Ground configuration is a three-position choice: input cold, floating, or centre tap. Load is switchable between EMT and open. Together the two switch banks let the transformer be optimised in the room, cartridge-by-cartridge, without opening the case.

Housing is 200 × 160 × 80 mm. The 5/10 is the mechanically silent front end that sits between a Tondose or JSD cartridge and any phono stage — including the EMT 128 — that is expecting a somewhat hotter input than the raw cartridge provides.