Mic input transformer (replace input caps). Cheap/Small?

777funk · Friday at 2:41 PM

I'm looking to replace input caps on an interface. I did it to a FW610 and liked the results. I tested an EDCOR and an old Yamaha from a console and liked the results. But those are kind of big and sort of expensive for 4 to perhaps 8 channels in my new FW2626.

Has anyone experimented with small power supply transformers for audio use? I don't need ultra linear frequency response. I tend to HPF most sources anyways. I do like the sound of a transformer vs two 47uF electrolytic caps for blocking DC and passing signal.

C.B. - Boudio · Friday at 3:06 PM

To prototype the mixer I'm building now, I have, before I had proper transformers, tested with a 220V/12V transformer (could also be 220/24, I don't have any data on it), and, well, it passed sound, but I can't say much sensible about it concerning sound quality because I didn't test it very thoroughly.
You could try, and your low will at least extend to 50 Hz and around that point, it'll be probably fine, but that's all I can say for sure. I also think that you might not reach 8k or thereabouts.
By all means, try it for fun, I'm curious too, but don't expect too much.

micolas · Friday at 4:24 PM

777funk said:
I'm looking to replace input caps on an interface. I did it to a FW610 and liked the results. I tested an EDCOR and an old Yamaha from a console and liked the results. But those are kind of big and sort of expensive for 4 to perhaps 8 channels in my new FW2626.

Has anyone experimented with small power supply transformers for audio use? I don't need ultra linear frequency response. I tend to HPF most sources anyways. I do like the sound of a transformer vs two 47uF electrolytic caps for blocking DC and passing signal.

I've tried miniature 120/12v ac and 230/24v ac power transformers before, but they sound a bit odd with some midrange frequencies.
I've also tried transformers from DI-Boxes, slightly better results.

micolas · Friday at 4:40 PM

@C.B. - Boudio
Try @igs - Igor's (UTM Transformers) reverse-connected transformer 0587
It has excellent quality at a good price:

https://utmindustry.com/utm0587/

He has other models on offer or he can make you a custom transformer.

777funk · Friday at 4:52 PM

micolas said:
I've tried miniature 120/12v ac and 230/24v ac power transformers before, but they sound a bit odd with some midrange frequencies.
I've also tried transformers from DI-Boxes, slightly better results.

I tried a transformer from an SM57. I have no idea what the ratio is on that. And it worked. But it sounded kind of cheap to my ears.

C.B. - Boudio · Friday at 5:10 PM

micolas said:
@C.B. - Boudio
Try @igs - Igor's (UTM Transformers) reverse-connected transformer 0587
It has excellent quality at a good price:

https://utmindustry.com/utm0587/

He has other models on offer or he can make you a custom transformer.

I have Edcors now, so problem solved for this project. But thanks for thinking along!