Hi Curtis:

I use and like the TDL Restoration Preamp. It works especially well with a high-output cartridge
like the Stanton 500.
http://www.tdl-tech.com/data4010.pdf

There are less and more expensive options with fewer and more features/options. One caution: this
preamp does not work well with a low-output cartridge, it is too noisy in the gain stages. But you
are just fine with a STanton 500 or other higher-output moving magnet models.

For transcriptions, you want options on playback curves plus vertical/lateral options and I would
also use transfer software with some user-friendly EQ options so you can tweak for optimal
audibility what you make publicly available.

Some people prefer to bring phono outputs in "flat" and do their EQ in the computer DC6 and DC7
offer many options for old EQ curves.

Also, of course, figure out a good method to clean your disks and play them only after a thorough
cleaning. Grooves free of grime and grit sound remarkably better. There are others on this list
expert as to what solutions are safe and which are verboten with transcriptions disks. Both Richard
Hess and Eric Jacobs have some good information about disk surface problems and solutions on their
websites.

Your collection sounds neat! Good luck with transferring it and I look forward to the day some or
all of it is online.

All of this is One Man's Opinions ...

-- Tom Fine

----- Original Message -----
From: "Peoples, Curtis" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, March 08, 2010 5:05 PM
Subject: Re: [ARSCLIST] Phono Preamp


Tom and Eric,

What I have are large transcription discs recorded at a variety of radio stations, mostly in
Louisiana and Texas from the 40s through the 50s and several that say reproduced at Sound Studios of
New York, inc. Some state lateral cut and are comprised of different materials.

I am still conducting research and seeking advice on these various discs before any transfers take
place; preservation and access is the ultimate goal. Most are in good shape. For those that are not,
I will out source the work. I have looked around some, but would like suggestions for outsourcing.

Currently I have one Stanton D5127 for Model 500 Broadcast Standard Series 3 to 7 grams. I also have
a Stanton 500.V3. I will buy other cartridges as needed.

The discs are recordings of Odis "Pop" Echols and the Melody Boys and the Stamps Quartet, about 50
discs. Unfortunately, I was told many were sold for scrap metal and others thrown out. I was able to
rescue these recently before they were also tossed.

I have 12 Norman Petty Trio Armed Forces Discs that are in great condition.

I have the Gordon McClendon Collection that it is in great shape and consists of hundreds of various
discs and tape formats. For example there are about 275 16 inch discs. I have an initial inventory
that an assistant compiled. If anyone is interested, I can send it off line.

I have some extra grant money to buy equipment, so having some playback options is also an
objective. So, advice on cartridges and other needed materials is welcomed.

Thanks

Curtis Peoples
Archivist
Crossroads of Music Archive
http://www.crossroadsofmusic.ttu.edu/
Southwest Collection, Texas Tech University
806-742-3749 *265
Box 41040
Lubbock, Texas 79409-1041


-----Original Message-----
From: Association for Recorded Sound Discussion List [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Tom Fine
Sent: Monday, March 08, 2010 3:17 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [ARSCLIST] Phono Preamp

Hi Curtis:

What sort of material are you working with? Mono, stereo both? RIAA only, pre-RIAA, both?
Microgroove, wide-groove, both? What's your cartridge type? What is your goal in playing the records
(transfer, listening, both)?

-- Tom Fine

----- Original Message -----
From: "Peoples, Curtis" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, March 08, 2010 4:10 PM
Subject: [ARSCLIST] Phono Preamp


Hi Folks,

I recently bought a Rek-O-Kut Rondine turntable and would like advice for a preamp. I searched the
ARSC archive and found some references for used preamps on eBay, but I will have to buy new. What
are the best preamps on the market?

Thanks,

Curtis Peoples
Archivist
Crossroads of Music Archive
Southwest Collection, Texas Tech University
806-742-3749 *265
Box 41040
Lubbock, Texas 79409-1041