EZ UTS phono stage
As shown in the UTS manual. Basically a 2-UTS-modules-in-series-and-RIAA-network sandwich.

EZ

We found it needs 2 power transformers. Reason: to break ground loops and forestall AC filtering imbalance since in a phono stage noise is a paramount issue. Place the transformers in a separate steel box for shielding.

AC wires need to be shielded and the shield connected to IEC chassis ground (anyone know any good spooled AC cord with 100% shielding?).

Result: state-of-the-art low noise (0.1mv self noise) and big dynamics tube phono stage with about 36-38db gain (depending on tubes)

And – it’s EZ!

The recipe:
Large Projekt box with feet, connectors and switches etc
Steel enclosure for power transformers
2 UTS modules and 2 power transformers

Yesterday we got the UTS EZ linestage with Extensions into the system.

The shaft extensions make a difference: sound is improved

1. more immediate, micro-macro dynamics resolved more easily, big transients seem strike from out of nowhere and delicate sounds present themselves with noticeable finesse
2. self-noise has dropped significantly; ~0.2mv which is close to our limit to measure and maybe explains some of #1
update: with 0.4mm copper tube shield in place, grounded to chassis it drops to 0.1mv!
3. The tactile quality of switch action is much improved due to the effect of the flexi connection between shaft and switch. IMO clunky switching puts the ears in a bad mood

We will still try some other enhancements:

Happy new year to you all! Best wishes.

Just wanted to share my "almost" end result of the DAC project. The Buffalo DAC 24bit/192Khz with UST output stage. A second (UST) unit is being planned so I can use the current output of the DAC instead of the voltage output. Should give even better detail and texture.
Sound is great.
See pictures attached.

Cheers.
Saffier

Hi,

You should be able to use the current output even single ended, the principle is the same as discussed below for the Denon DVD Player...

Ciao T

I nestled the power transformer behind the existing power switch, after relocating a few circuit boards.

The transformer was fastened to the chassis with one 6MM bolt thru the bottom.

To fit the tube output board, I had to remove the video portion of the player. This was not a problem for me as I use the unit for CD playback only.

An aluminum plate was fabricated to mount to (4) newly vacant mounting tabs....in turn, the board was bolted to that plate.

The output signals were taken to a pair of chassis mounted RCA jacks installed into some unused holes.

The sound is very good! Smooth, extended frequency response, and very musical....MUCH better than stock!

The the build is finished and the sound is great.

I will let you know how it sounds once it has run in for a while but at this stage the improvement is quite staggering.

The build was fairly easy though my shaky hands didn't make soldering to the dac chip outputs very easy

I am now using gilded copper rca's and solid core mono crystal copper cabling on input and outputs which came from DIY Hi-fi SUPPLY along with the UVOS.

The UVOS, doesn't come with a tube. After a bit of reading I chose a NOS , JAN , Sylvannia 6922 for $40 including testing for low noise and mircophony from Tube Depot.

I mounted the UVOS on nylon standoffs figuring they would provide a bit more isolation from vibration for the tube than the metal equivalents.

Great sound stage and imaging, I am impressed. Made with USD stage at 6db and Hypex 180W D-class (also DIYHIFI attenuator and others)