Phasemation T-550 MC Stepup Transformer

Product Description

The Phasemation T-550 MC Step-Up Transformer is a high-performance audio component designed for audiophiles seeking to elevate the sound of moving coil (MC) cartridges in vinyl playback. Featuring a robust, low-loss transformer with a large EI core and a special split winding structure using high-purity copper wire, it achieves exceptional low-frequency linearity and high-efficiency voltage step-up. The transformer is housed in a rigid chassis with a 10mm-thick slanted aluminum front panel, 1.2mm-thick copper-plated steel base, and 1.6mm-thick copper-plated steel cover, ensuring minimal magnetic distortion and vibration. With balanced and unbalanced input options, a low/high impedance switch, and a bypass mode, it offers versatile cartridge compatibility. Handcrafted in Japan, the T-550 reflects Phasemation’s commitment to musical realism and precision engineering, delivering vivid sound with remarkable spatial expression.  

Key Features  

• High-Performance Transformer: Large EI core with 0.2mm-thick 78% super permalloy and low-loss, extra-thick copper wire (0.32mm primary, 0.12mm secondary) ensures superior low-frequency linearity and low-loss voltage step-up for vibrant sound across all frequencies.  
  
• Special Split Winding Structure: Mass-production-ready design reduces phase distortion in the audible band, achieving precise sound imaging and spatial clarity.  
  
• Flexible Impedance Settings: Switchable low (1.5–40 ohms) and high (40+ ohms) impedance modes, plus a bypass option, optimize performance for a wide range of MC cartridges.  
  
• Balanced & Unbalanced Inputs: Supports balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, with a ground terminal for flexible turntable connectivity.  
  
• Robust Chassis Design: 10mm-thick aluminum slanted front panel, 1.2mm-thick copper-plated steel base, and 1.6mm-thick copper-plated steel cover with non-magnetic stainless steel screws minimize magnetic distortion and ensure rigidity.  
  
• Vibration Isolation: Transformer is floated with high-damping rubber material to prevent external vibrations, preserving signal purity.  
  
• Balanced Output: XLR output with full balance correspondence maximizes the inherent balance operation of MC cartridges for enhanced sound quality.  
• Elegant Design: Unified aesthetic with Phasemation’s new-generation models like the EA-350, featuring a sleek, slanted aluminum front panel for visual harmony.  
  
• Award-Winning Heritage: Builds on the T-1000’s acclaimed transformer mounting and magnetic flux control technologies for proven performance.

Why Choose the Phasemation T-550?

The T-550 enhances MC cartridge performance with a vivid, detailed sound and exceptional spatial expression, making it ideal for genres like jazz, classical, and rock. Its low-loss transformer and precise winding structure deliver clarity and dynamics, while the flexible impedance and input options ensure compatibility with a wide range of cartridges. The robust, vibration-resistant chassis and balanced output maximize signal purity, making it a perfect match for high-end phono stages and amplifiers. Offering professional-grade performance at a more accessible price than its flagship predecessors, the T-550 is a future-proof choice for vinyl enthusiasts seeking musical realism and precision in their hi-fi systems.  

Product Specifications  

• Input Impedance: Low (1.5–40 ohms), High (40+ ohms), Bypass mode  
  
• Step-Up Ratio: 26 dB (Low), 20 dB (High)  
  
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz–50 kHz (+2 dB)  
  
• Inputs: 1 balanced XLR, 1 unbalanced RCA (with ground terminal)  
  
• Output: 1 balanced XLR  
  
• Dimensions: 7.5" W x 3.8" H x 8.9" D (190 x 96 x 227 mm)  
  
• Weight: 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)  
  
• Finish: Silver (aluminum front panel, copper-plated steel chassis)  
  

Perfect For  

• Audiophiles seeking to enhance MC cartridge performance with a high-fidelity step-up transformer  
  
• Vinyl enthusiasts needing versatile impedance and balanced/unbalanced connectivity  
  
• Music lovers valuing Phasemation’s Japanese craftsmanship and vivid, musical sound