A few moments ago the FedEx driver delivered a new product released by the Leben Hi-Fi Stereo Company, the Leben CS-60T step-up transformer for moving-coil phonograph cartridges!

In typical Leben fashion the CS-60T is drop-dead gorgeous! Fit and finish is classy and extraordinary, as with all Leben products. 

From the included information card:

The CS-60T features custom designed Permalloy-core transformers, made in Japan with the thickest possible wire relative to the core size.

To prevent sound quality degradation caused by contact points, a direct connection structure without a toggle switch was adopted.

A chassis with high shielding effect using two different materials. Right and left channel transformers are enclosed in a 1 kilogram aluminum block, which is then covered with a 2 mm thick steel chassis and 10 mm thick aluminum base.

Wooden side panels made of natural walnut to neutralize the metallic resonance of the chassis.

Wooden insulators (above) made of Zelkova serrata which is often used for the body of Japanese drums, pillars of shrines and temples, etc. This achieved natural and organic sound and realistic sound stage.

Specifications:

Frequency response: 10Hz to 100KHz +/- 1 dB.

Gain: 25 dB.

Input Impedance: below 14 Ohms (recommended cartridge).

Load Impedance: over 47 kOhm.

Dimensions (in cm): 11 (H) x 12 (W) x 15 (D).

Weight: 2.8 kg (6.2 pounds)

A classy badge of the Leben Hi-Fi Stereo company is on the top of the chassis.

The Leben CS-90T SUT is just stunning to see, and I wish the photos did it justice. Wait until you see a CS-90T in person - it's gorgeous!

Many thanks to Yoshi-san and Elia-san at the Muson Project, Inc., for sending the Leben CS-90T step-up transformer for me to listen to and tell you about.

I'll be installing it into my office system with the Leben RS-30EQ phono preamplifier shortly, so much more to come!

As always, thanks for stopping by, and may the tone be with you!