Bryston TF 2 Moving Coil Step Up Transformer
Best passive upgrade for audiophiles seeking pure, low-noise moving coil performance.
The Bryston TF-2 is a passive phono step-up transformer designed to enhance the performance of low-output moving coil cartridges. It adds 20dB of gain using high-quality, wide-bandwidth transformers without any active components, thus avoiding the noise and distortion associated with excessive active gain. This allows for greater detail and nuance from your cartridges when used with phono preamps. The TF-2 boasts very low phase shift, impressive common mode rejection, and vanishingly low total harmonic distortion. It features an all-steel chassis and top, with RCA inputs and outputs, plus a turntable ground connection.
$1500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
376
/ 466
#376 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-78%
Below average
Frequency Response
0.5200.120402020
/ dB @ Hz, dB @ kHz, dBu Hz - kHz
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking natural detail and superior musicality
- Purists prioritizing signal clarity and minimal electronic noise
- Analog enthusiasts investing in long-term, reliable equipment
Who should skip it
- Owners of moving magnet or high-output cartridge systems
- Budget-conscious listeners building a modest analog system
- Beginners intimidated by complex impedance matching requirements
Performance breakdown
Signal Transparency
Passive design eliminates active noise for a pristine, uncolored signal path.
Noise Rejection
Exceptional common mode rejection keeps interference and hum strictly at bay.
Build Integrity
Rugged steel chassis provides excellent shielding and long-term mechanical durability.
Phase Accuracy
Minimal phase shift ensures precise imaging and a coherent soundstage.
Cartridge Compatibility
Optimized for low-output moving coils, though lacks adjustable loading options.
Setup Simplicity
Straightforward plug-and-play operation with no power requirements or complex settings.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
0.5dB @ 20Hz, 0.1dB @ 20kHz, 40dBu 20Hz - 20kHz
Gain
20dB
Sensitivity
0.5 mV
THD
<0.001%
Output Impedance
4.71k ohm
Dimensions
2.75" H x 5.7" W x 8.25" D
Chassis Material
Steel
Inputs
1 stereo pair RCA, 1 turntable ground
Features
- Fully passive transformer-based step-up for MC phono cartridges
- Compatible with Bryston BP-2 MM/MC and other active gain stages
- Low distortion and wide bandwidth performance
- Very low phase shift
- High common mode rejection of 120dB at 60Hz
- Available with a silver or black faceplate
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Bryston TF 2 Moving Coil Step Up Transformer for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Enthusiasts highlight how it elevates their listening experience, revealing intricate details and a rich soundstage previously unheard. The unit's solid construction and reliable performance further reinforce its premium appeal, making it a highly regarded component in high fidelity audio systems. Its elegant, understated design also receives appreciation for seamlessly integrating into sophisticated setups. This transformer is seen as a significant upgrade, delivering a noticeable improvement in audio clarity and depth.
Know before you buy
The TF-2 is a passive step-up transformer designed to boost the signal of low-output moving coil cartridges. By providing 20dB of gain without active circuitry, it allows your existing phono preamp to handle these cartridges with lower noise and distortion.
No, the TF-2 is a fully passive device. It does not require any power connection, which helps eliminate the risk of introducing electrical noise or hum into your signal path.
Yes, the TF-2 is compatible with most standard moving magnet (MM) phono preamps. It acts as an intermediary between your turntable and the preamp, effectively converting the low-output MC signal to a level your preamp can process.
Passive transformers like the TF-2 avoid the thermal noise and potential distortion inherent in active electronic components. Because it relies on high-quality transformer coupling, it provides a very clean, quiet, and phase-accurate signal boost.
The TF-2 includes a dedicated turntable ground connection on the rear panel. It is essential to connect your turntable's ground wire here to maintain the unit's high common-mode rejection and prevent unwanted ground loops or hum.
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$1500