Dynavector SUP-200 MC Step-Up Transformer

The Dynavector SUP-200 is a high-performance MC step-up transformer that amplifies the output of low-output moving coil cartridges to levels compatible with standard MM phono inputs. With 26dB of gain, a frequency response from 20Hz to 100kHz, and channel separation exceeding 90dB, it provides a transparent signal path between your cartridge and phono stage.

Dynavector designed the SUP-200 to complement their own cartridge range but it works with any MC cartridge outputting 0.1mV or more. The input impedance range of 3 to 35 ohms accommodates cartridges from the DV-10X5A Low Output through the flagship DRT XV-1t. What sets it apart from lesser step-up transformers is the attention to noise rejection: double magnetic shielding with a mu-metal housing inside an aluminum case, separate left and right channel enclosures to eliminate crosstalk, and vibration-damped coil windings to prevent microphonic coloration.

Key Features of the Dynavector SUP-200

• 26dB Gain: Sufficient step-up for all Dynavector MC cartridges and most third-party low-output MCs into 47k ohm MM inputs
• 20Hz - 100kHz Frequency Response: Extended bandwidth preserves musical information well beyond the audible range
• 90dB+ Channel Separation: Virtually eliminates interchannel interference for precise stereo imaging
• Double Magnetic Shielding: Mu-metal housing inside an aluminum case rejects external interference
• Separate Channel Enclosures: Independent left and right transformer housings prevent internal crosstalk
• High-Permeability Core: Ultra-low distortion core material preserves signal integrity
• Rhodium-Plated RCA Terminals: Corrosion-resistant connectors for reliable, low-resistance connections
• Made in Japan: Precision-wound with large-diameter OFC copper coils

Transformer Technology

The SUP-200 uses a high-permeability core material selected for ultra-low distortion characteristics. The coil windings are impregnated to control vibration and prevent microphonic artifacts. Large-diameter OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) wire is used for the windings, minimizing resistance and maximizing signal transfer efficiency. An output termination resistor ensures steady performance regardless of the connected phono stage's input characteristics. The result is 26dB of clean gain with less than 0.1dB channel balance variation at 1kHz.

Noise Rejection and Shielding

Step-up transformers are inherently susceptible to electromagnetic interference because they're designed to amplify tiny signals. The SUP-200 addresses this with a two-layer shielding approach. The inner mu-metal housing provides magnetic shielding around each transformer core, while the outer aluminum case adds a second barrier against external fields. The left and right channels are housed in separate enclosures within the case, providing physical isolation that achieves the 90dB+ channel separation specification. This level of shielding means the SUP-200 can be placed near turntables and other equipment without picking up hum or noise.

Compatibility

The SUP-200 accepts MC cartridges with impedances from 3 to 35 ohms and output voltages above 0.1mV. This covers the full Dynavector cartridge range as well as most MC cartridges from other manufacturers. The output connects to any phono stage with a 47k ohm MM input. For Dynavector cartridges specifically, the SUP-200 provides an alternative to dedicated MC phono stages, particularly useful when paired with high-quality MM-only phono preamps that may outperform budget MC stages.

Why a Step-Up Transformer?

There are two ways to get a low-output MC cartridge signal up to usable levels: an active MC phono stage with high-gain transistors or tubes, or a passive step-up transformer that amplifies the signal electromagnetically with zero active components. Each approach has trade-offs, and experienced vinyl listeners often have strong preferences.

Active MC stages add their own noise floor and power supply artifacts to the signal. The best ones minimize this, but the electronics are always there. A step-up transformer like the SUP-200 amplifies purely through electromagnetic induction. There are no transistors, no op-amps, no power supply. The only thing between your cartridge and phono stage is copper wire wound around a transformer core. This gives the SUP-200 a particular sonic character: Stereophile's Herb Reichert described it as bringing "tonal and dynamic strength" with music that feels "earthly, meaty, and masculine." It adds body and rhythmic energy that pure electronic amplification sometimes strips away.

The practical advantage is flexibility. If you already own a high-quality MM phono stage, the SUP-200 lets you run low-output MC cartridges through it without buying a separate MC-capable unit. And because transformer matching is a different amplification topology than active gain, many listeners prefer the combination of SUP-200 plus a good MM stage over a dedicated MC phono stage at the same total price.

THE LISTENING ROOM DIFFERENCE

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.

Dynavector SUP-200 Specifications

Related Dynavector Products

The SUP-200 pairs with Dynavector's low-output MC cartridges. Here are some natural companions:

• Dynavector P75 Mk4 - Dynavector's own phono preamplifier with Phono Enhancer current-drive mode, an alternative to step-up transformer amplification.
• Dynavector DRT XV-1s - Reference MC cartridge that benefits from the SUP-200's high-quality signal path.
• Dynavector Te Kaitora Rua - Premium MC cartridge with 0.3mV output, an ideal match for the SUP-200.

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.