Cartridge Load Measurement
If you need to set the adjustable load, first look up the suggested loading for your particular cartridge model in
the manufacturers specifications. Also check a few of the known audio columnists to see what their reviews
might suggest for optimum loading. Sometimes one will find a large discrepancy between these resources. The
PPA-2 makes it easy to test these various choices. A rough rule-of-thumb is that loading should be about 10
times the source impedance specification for the cartridge. This, and suggestions from resources you might find
will, in the end, just be guidelines. The beauty of the adjustment method PPA-2 uses is that you can adjust up
and down from the suggested starting points to achieve what sounds best for you in your system.
With PPA-2 powered ON and the appropriate input selected, press the SELECT button. PPA-2 screen will come
on and tell you that you have entered measurement mode and will show the current LEFT and RIGHT load
settings. Note that audio is muted during the measurement process.
Turn the load pots on the back panel associated with the input in question and you will see the readings on
the screen change. Set both the LEFT and RIGHT adjustment knobs to the desired loading. It’s a bit fussy
as the controls are quite sensitive, but with some patience you will get it to where you want to be. Pressing
the SELECT button again will switch to the exit screen where measurement mode will automatically exit in 15
seconds and put the display to sleep. To exit immediately, press SELECT again during the countdown.
To set the adjustable loading for the alternate input you must select that input and then enter measurement
mode again by pressing SELECT and following the instructions above.
ELAC Alchemy PPA-2 Phono Preamplifier | www.elac.com | Page 8
