Power transformers Expensive really needed

[Ed_Chambley]

I have often wondered why someone would purchase a Mercury PT.  I know they make quality stuff and my question may be sort of dumb here, but I cannot see the need for an expensive PT.  As long as it has reliability and provides a consistent supply of power, what can it possibly do to improve the tone of an amp.  I am not speaking of  low end chinese stuff here, but I cannot see why anyone would not choose a PT like Hammond, Hybour, Classic Tone or similar for a build.  There is probably something I do not understand, but I have read much information on this subject and cannot see any reason to buy an very expensive PT.

Could someone help me to understand the logic behind this other than marketing .  I do understand the need for quality components elsewhere.

[JayB]

I'm in the same boat as you. As long as it operating with in it's intended purposes and specs, it's all good. The output transformer can make a difference, but that all falls in with how it is wound. I guess I look for quality with the best price. Then let my ears decide.

[HotBluePlates]

I basically agree with you.

Mercury claims their models are based on/replications of vintage guitar amp transformers. To that end, if they replicate the good and bad aspects of the original, maybe there is some element of the response of the original amp that is captured. That, and the voltage should be close to what an original item outputs (which may be accurately higher than the schematic due to 120vac+ vs. 110vac).

Some other folks here have bought Mercury transformers and can tell you better what they do than I can.

[tubenit]

I am like minded in thinking that as long as the PT is a reliable type with correct voltages that it doesn't matter. 

The OT does matter.  I've experimented with that for myself. In one case, I put a Deluxe Reverb OT in a Dano Centurian only to quickly replace the original back into the Dano which sounded MUCH better to me.

With respect, Tubenit

[bluesbear]

The brand name on the PT is immaterial. As long as the voltage provided and, most especially, the current ratings are correct, all that matters is the build quality. My particular adage is, "Voltage is voltage." What's coming out of the wall is more likely to affect the sound of an amp than any well built PT. Of course, the OT is a different beast. It matters!
Dave

[kagliostro]

There are many way to build a Power Transformer

same VA and Voltages, but different laminations quality and measures

also the insulating paint of the windings may be different

but I think you can find big differences only with badly planned transformers

an Hammond, Weber, Hybour and many others, sure can compete each other and also with the titled Mercury Magnetics

other thing is about OT where the construction can determine the tone of the amp also if Wattage & primary / secondary impedance are corresponding

the type of laminations, the number of windings and their disposition can improve tone results
and affect wallet .......

However many peple is satisfacted by the Hammond & Co. transformers, not strictly necessary to go to other titled brands

after all silver is the best (or near) conductor, but we go on using copper wires, the results are acceptable  

Kagliostro

[phsyconoodler]

I have used direct replacement MM transformers at the request of some customers and have noticed zero difference.But...if you get their upgraded ones they add more iron and wire and yes,they do sound 'bigger'.Better is subjective.
  I've used the 'classic' Hammond line for years and they are all bigger than the original manufacturers and IMHO they sound better,giving more girth and bandwidth to the tone.The Hammond guitar line of tranny's sound very close to the original amps IMHO.
  So the hype about MM can be subtle and sneaky if you ask me.

[Ed_Chambley]

I have used direct replacement MM transformers at the request of some customers and have noticed zero difference.But...if you get their upgraded ones they add more iron and wire and yes,they do sound 'bigger'.Better is subjective.
  I've used the 'classic' Hammond line for years and they are all bigger than the original manufacturers and IMHO they sound better,giving more girth and bandwidth to the tone.The Hammond guitar line of tranny's sound very close to the original amps IMHO.
  So the hype about MM can be subtle and sneaky if you ask me.

So you have noticed a slight difference in Power Trannys?  I do understand Output Trannys but cannot understand how a PT can make a difference.  I mean voltage is just that  If I find one at a competitive price, I will get it as they do make a good product, very reliable and stable.  Other than that I don't get it.

[overtone]

I bought one, but I don't remember exactly why anymore! I remember that I was not going to buy it at all because they publish virtually no data sheets. The importer/supplier here in Europe helped me out there. But the thing has been lying here for over two years now only sometimes to be used as a test PT. I can be very slow.

Could the total impedance presented to the rectifier of a PT make an impact on the feel of the amp?
Usually I go for any old, old iron and I have noticed quite a difference in the resistances of the primary and secondary windings.
Whilst I am clear on the impact of this for the tube rectifier, I wonder if there is more to it than that?

Best, tony