Before we talk about the MC step-up transformer, we'll start with the basic way to watch records. When listening to records using a turntable (record player), the record needle is used to convert the sound information engraved in the grooves of the record disk into music signals and play them.
In general, preamps for integrated amplifiers and separate amplifiers come with a dedicated PHONO (phono equalizer) input for listening to records. You will need to connect the output terminal from the record player to this phono input to listen to music.
There are two main types of record cartridges (recording needles): MM (moving magnet type) and MC (moving coil type) depending on the difference in power generation methods used to convert the sound of a record into an electrical signal.
In the days when records were common in the home, record needles were generally MM-shaped. The MM type has a high output voltage and is easy to use, so you can enjoy watching records by connecting it to an amplifier with a phono input. Therefore, many MM types are inexpensive and durable.
Cartridge product page is here
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=27
Another type of MC (moving coil type) cartridge has a complex structure and requires a higher accuracy than MM type cartridges. The sound response is good, and the frequency range is wide, and the best thing about it is the good sound. It is generally thought of as an "expensive and high-performance" MC cartridge, and is mainly used in the mid- and high-end class. In fact, MC cartridges are used in an overwhelming number of audiophiles, and the products are also diverse.
Due to its structure, the output voltage is lower than the MM type, and only outputs less than 1/10 of the MM type, and only 0.1 to 0.3mV.
Therefore, even if you put it directly into the phono input of the amplifier, the volume is too low to use. Therefore, a boosting transformer and head amplifier are required to raise the output voltage to the MM level without lowering the sound quality level.
Since it is exclusively for MC cartridges, it is also called a "MC transformer" or "MC head amplifier."
The boost transformer product page is here
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=26
Boost transformers are more widely used than head amplifiers. We have a wide range of products, with a wide range of designs, including shapes and sizes, and prices vary widely. The boost ratio differs depending on the transformer winding ratio, and the input impedance is also divided into two types: high and low. Because the mechanism is simple, differences in performance and structure between the core and winding materials have a major impact on the sound, but each one has its own unique personality and is characterized by a direct, powerful reproduction sound.
Head amplifier product page is here
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/detail.php?product_id=22
On the other hand, head amplifiers use amplifier elements (semiconductors, etc.) to increase the input signal electronically, so power is required. In terms of sound quality, it seems that most of them have a flat, wide range.
Since the booster transformer does not have a power supply, it is resistant to noise and has excellent stability, but depending on the installation environment, noise may be produced due to external influences, and even if the ground wire is not connected correctly, there will be humming noise, so be careful. On the other hand, some head amplifiers may need to prevent noise around the power source due to current flowing.
When choosing a boosting transformer, there are roughly different MC cartridges: low impedance type and high impedance type cartridges, so choose a boosting transformer that suits the impedance as much as possible.
The phono equalizer product page is here
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=33
In addition to the phono equalizers built into preamps and integrated amplifiers, there are also separate phono equalizer amplifiers. Depending on the product, there are a wide range of products, including MM input only, MC compatible models with built-in booster transformers, and equalizers that amplify ideally for MC cartridges using a current output with a large output, so you can choose the combination or model that suits your taste.
