LL9226 Lundahl MC-Übertrager improved LL9206 MC transformer

Lundahl LL9226 flexible MC step-up with 1:5, 1:10 and 1:20

The Lundahl LL9226 is a compact amorphous-core MC input transformer and the improved, pin-compatible successor to the LL9206. Reduced winding resistance improves signal capability and extends useful frequency performance.

Ratios of 1:5, 1:10 and 1:20 suit widely different cartridges, ranging from the EMT HSD 006 and Denon DL-103 to the AT33PTG/2, Rega Ania Pro and My Sonic Lab Eminent EX.

Suitable applications

• Denon DL-103 at 1:10 and DL-103R at 1:20
• AT33PTG/2 and Rega Ania Pro at 1:20
• My Sonic Lab Eminent EX at 1:10
• EMT HSD 006 at 1:5 with adjusted secondary loading

Technical specifications

Transformer type

Compact passive MC step-up transformer, one channel per component

Core material

Uncut amorphous cobalt strip core

Model relationship

Improved and pin-compatible development of the LL9206

Step-up ratios

1:5, 1:10 or 1:20

Voltage gain

Approximately 14.0 dB, 20.0 dB or 26.0 dB

Cartridge load with a 47 kΩ MM input

Approximately 1,880 Ω, 470 Ω or 118 Ω without additional secondary loading

Lundahl source-impedance guidance

1:5 for cartridges below approximately 100 Ω, 1:10 below 50 Ω and 1:20 below 25 Ω

Data-sheet frequency response

Approximately 10 Hz to 50 kHz within ±1 dB or 5 Hz to 100 kHz within ±1.5 dB under the documented conditions

Dimensions

Approximately 30 × 23 × 15 mm

Weight

Approximately 29 g

Stereo requirement

Two LL9226 transformers are required for stereo

Loading and grounding notes

The LL9226 provides a particularly useful progression from low to medium and high gain. A resistor across the secondary can reduce the load reflected to the cartridge without changing the turns ratio.

The data sheet requires a defined common ground reference for the input and output sides. Grounding and winding bridges must therefore follow the selected balanced or unbalanced Lundahl connection diagram exactly.

Questions about choosing a versatile MC step-up transformer

Which Lundahl transformer suits a Denon DL-103?

The LL9226 at 1:10 is a practical starting point. A 0.3 mV DL-103 output becomes approximately 3 mV and a 47 kΩ MM input reflects about 470 Ω to the cartridge. A 1:5 ratio produces approximately 1.5 mV when the following phono stage provides more gain.

Which step-up transformer suits an Audio-Technica AT33PTG/2 or Rega Ania Pro?

The LL9226 at 1:20 is particularly suitable for both 10 Ω cartridges. The AT33PTG/2 produces approximately 6 mV and the Ania Pro about 7 mV. The reflected load is roughly 118 Ω, close to their manufacturer recommendations of more than or approximately 100 Ω.

Can the LL9226 be used successfully with a My Sonic Lab Eminent EX?

Yes, despite its approximately 1 Ω internal impedance, 1:10 is a highly convincing starting point. A 0.4 mV output becomes approximately 4 mV and the reflected load of about 470 Ω is close to the manufacturer's ideal region around 400 Ω.

Is the LL9226 a suitable upgrade or replacement for an LL9206?

Yes, Lundahl describes the LL9226 as a pin-compatible development with lower copper resistance, improved signal capability and extended frequency response. Existing wiring and loading should nevertheless be checked against the current LL9226 data sheet.