
Rothwell — Analogue accessories
MCL Moving Coil Step-Up Transformer
Pure Lundahl transformer coupling for your finest moving coil cartridges.
True analogue fidelity is often found in the simplest paths, and the MCL serves as a masterclass in passive signal amplification. By replacing active electronic stages with high-precision Swedish Lundahl transformers, it bypasses the noise and distortion inherent in transistor or op-amp circuits, allowing the true character of your cartridge to flourish.
Positioned as the definitive step-up solution within the Rothwell range, the MCL is engineered for the discerning listener who seeks the ultimate synergy between their turntable and phono-stage. It acts as a serene, noise-free conduit that preserves the integrity of micro-level signals, ensuring that nothing is added or subtracted from the original performance.
The sound signature is defined by its remarkable stillness and spatial honesty. It provides a vast, open soundstage where individual instruments are placed with pinpoint accuracy, while transients remain crisp and natural, free from the electronic glare that can often fatigue the listener during extended sessions.
Key Features
01
Lundahl transformer coupling
Utilises world-class Swedish Lundahl transformers for exceptional bandwidth, low distortion, and superior linearity.
02
Passive signal path
Removes the need for active circuitry and power supplies, eliminating potential mains noise and electronic interference.
03
Advanced hum rejection
Features multiple primary and secondary windings configured to actively cancel hum pickup from external sources.
04
Proprietary loading networks
Carefully designed networks maintain a consistent 100 ohm input impedance to ensure optimal matching with a wide range of moving coil cartridges.
Chapter 01
Engineering Excellence
At the heart of the MCL lies a core of cobalt-based uncut amorphous strip material, chosen for its magnetic properties which ensure a wide, flat frequency response. The precision winding techniques reduce inter-winding capacitance to the absolute minimum, ensuring that high-frequency transients are reproduced without ringing or artificial brightness.
Chapter 02
Build Quality
Housed in a rugged, crackle-finished steel chassis, the MCL is built to provide a lifetime of interference-free service. The internal point-to-point wiring uses high-grade components to maintain a clean signal path, reflecting a commitment to British manufacturing standards where every detail is optimised for long-term sonic stability.
Chapter 03
Listening Notes
Users frequently report an immediate sense of scale and realism upon introducing the MCL into their systems. By providing the cartridge with a perfectly matched load and sufficient gain, the transformer allows the phono-stage to operate in its most comfortable range, resulting in a more dynamic, liquid, and emotionally resonant musical presentation.
Specifications
Turns ratio1:20
Voltage gain26dB (x20)
Core materialcobalt based uncut amorphous strip
Input impedance100 ohms
Optimum load impedance47k + 150pF
Bandwidth8Hz - 75kHz (+0/-3dB)
cartridge compatibility (o/p)0.2mV - 0.7mV
cartridge compatibility (imp.)internal impedance <20 ohms
Dimensions60 x 155 x 92 mm
Weight580 g
