ASTOR
MC-999US MC step up transformer

The transformer used is manufactured by Hashimoto Electric Co. The sound quality is delicate, dynamic, beautifully clear, and reproduces sound clearly from low to high frequencies. This is a top quality MC cartridge step-up transformer that provides music reproduction that has never been experienced before.
The input transformer for MC cartridges from Hashimoto Denki (manufacturer and distributor of Sun-Sight transformers) is used to send the signal to the amplifier. Cartridge step-up transformers are manufactured using input transformers for MC cartridges manufactured by Hashimoto Electric Co. In pursuit of the best sound quality, high quality materials and components were used to create this product.

The chassis of the MC-999NS & MC-999US series transformers are made of 2mm and 5mm thick oxygen-free copper panels, and the entire interior is lined with anti-vibration material to eliminate vibration that can adversely affect sound quality. The rotary switch uses custom-made gold-plated contacts from Seiden, and all other parts are new gold-plated parts that have been carefully selected. The wiring material is 0.9mm oxygen-free copper single wire with gold-plated Teflon coating for insulation, which has a significant impact on sound quality. The left and right wires are independently wired in the air, a specialty of Astro Denshi, to improve channel separation. The insulator is also machined from an oxygen-free copper round bar and attached with a chamois skin between the insulators.

The only difference between the MC-999NS and MC-999US series is whether the transformer is housed inside the chassis or protruding like a chimney. However, the 999NS series is considered to be more rigid because the transformer is completely enclosed within the chassis, and may have better S/N ratio.

The Hashimoto transformer is available in three types: A-type: HM-3, X-type: HM-X, and G-type: HM-7, depending on your preference. If you prefer a more clear sound, we recommend using HM-3.

Step-up ratio (gain)	HM-3	HIGH: 12Ω, 1:20, 26dB LOW: 3Ω, 1:40, 32dB
	HM-X	HIGH: 12Ω, 1:15, 23dB LOW: 3Ω, 1:30, 29dB
	HM-7	HIGH: 12Ω, 1:15, 23dB LOW: 3Ω, 1:30, 29dB
Input impedance	LOW: 3Ω (2Ω~7Ω) High: 12Ω(7Ω~40Ω)
Load Impedance	47kΩ
Frequency response	HM-3	15Hz - 50kHz(-1dB)
	HM-X	15Hz - 100kHz(-1dB)
	HM-7	15Hz - 80kHz(-1dB)
Insertion Loss	1.5dB
Input impedance switching	PASS, HIGH, LOW
Separation	91dB
Size	W170 x D175 x H95mm
Weight	Approx. 3.5kg - 4.6kg (depending on transformer size)
Input/Output	2 inputs 1 output