AN-111: Dual Primary Windings for Switchable Turns and Impedance Ratios

Some CineMag transformers feature dual primary windings, allowing users to reconfigure turns ratios and impedance ratios via simple switching. This provides valuable flexibility in mic preamp, line input, and step-up applications without requiring multiple transformer models.

Using Dual Primary Windings for Flexible Configuration

Some transformers have dual primary windings, such as the CM-75101A and the CMQEE-3440A.  This allows for the windings (and taps) to be switched for different turns ratios and, hence, impedance ratios.  The switch connections are shown here.

These switches carry very low signal levels.  Very good quality switches are highly recommended for long term trouble-free operation.

NOTE:  The CM-75101A with the lead wires version can be specially ordered with center-tapped primary windings.

Dual-primary microphone transformer wiring using CineMag CMQEE-3440A and CM-75101A.
Figure 1. Dual-primary microphone input transformer wiring using the CineMag CMQEE-3440A and CM-75101A for selectable 37.5, 150, and 600 ohm microphone input impedances.