Michell Engineering HR Power Supply black
Overview
The HR Power Supply represents a major evolution in powering the DC motors of Michell Engineering turntables. This external unit radically transforms the electrical and mechanical behavior of the renowned TecnoDec, GyroDec, and Gyro SE, delivering stability and signal purity that redefine their musical capabilities.
A black acrylic enclosure synonymous with technical mastery
The HR Power Supply comes in an elegant matte black acrylic enclosure, a signature Michell Engineering material since the Prisma era in the late 1970s. The unit’s compact dimensions (approximately 14 x 9 x 5 cm, weighing 545 grams) conceal sophisticated electronics developed in collaboration with Trichord Research, Michell’s longtime partner for electronic circuits. This black finish, now the only available option, blends seamlessly with the contemporary aesthetics of modern hi-fi systems.
The rear panel features a fine speed-adjustment potentiometer, allowing precise platter rotation tuning. This accessible control provides enough range to compensate for minor variations due to belt wear or mechanical tolerances. Mains connection is via a standard IEC socket, enabling the use of optimized power cables according to each user’s preferences.
The Never Connected circuit: total mains isolation
At the heart of the HR Power Supply lies Never Connected technology, a radical approach to electrical isolation developed by Trichord Research. Unlike conventional power supplies that maintain a permanent electrical link to the grid, this circuit ensures complete separation between the mains and the motor’s power supply. This architecture uses an active rectification system followed by an ultra-low-noise regulation stage, eliminating any contamination from the household electrical network.
The integrated toroidal transformer, chosen for its low magnetic leakage, feeds a C-L-C filtering stage using low-ESR capacitors. The regulator, likely based on an enhanced LM317 topology, delivers a remarkably stable DC voltage. This 9V nominal output can be finely adjusted to achieve the exact rotation speed of 33⅓ revolutions per minute.
Measurable and perceptible sonic improvements
Adopting the HR Power Supply dramatically transforms the sonic behavior of Michell turntables. The noise floor collapses, revealing micro-details previously masked by the residual noise of the standard supply. Silences between notes gain unusual depth, creating a striking contrast with musical passages.
The increased speed stability is particularly evident on sustained notes. Wind and string instruments maintain perfect pitch throughout their sustain, eliminating micro-fluctuations in tonal height that typically betray the weaknesses of a basic power supply. The piano—especially revealing of wow and flutter issues—regains its natural harmonic coherence.
The low end benefits from a remarkable transformation. Bass gains in definition, with crisper attacks and cleaner decays. This improvement in low-frequency control significantly enhances rhythmic perception, giving recordings renewed foundation and drive. Bass lines become easier to follow, even in complex musical passages.
Disarmingly simple installation
Installing the HR Power Supply defies technical complexity. Simply unplug the motor cable from the original power supply and connect it to the HR Power Supply. No modification to the turntable is required, preserving its value and warranty. This plug-and-play approach reflects Michell Engineering’s pragmatic philosophy, prioritizing efficiency over needless complication.
The three-pin mini-DIN connector, manufactured by Switchcraft, ensures a reliable and durable connection to the motor. Compatibility extends to all recent Michell turntables equipped with DC motors. Owners of older models with AC motors should verify compatibility before considering this upgrade.
Technical specifications
Compatibility
- Designed specifically for TecnoDec, GyroDec, and Gyro SE turntables
- Low-noise electronic power supply for DC motors
Technical features
- Michell HR Power Supply premium external power unit
- Exclusive Never-Connected circuitry for optimized stability
- Speed adjustment accessible at the rear of the unit
Installation and accessories
- Simplified installation: unplug the original power supply and connect the HR
- IEC power cable included
General information
- Available only in a black acrylic enclosure
- Replacement power supply to enhance the performance of compatible turntables
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the HR Power Supply compatible with my older GyroDec equipped with a Papst AC motor?
No, the HR Power Supply is designed exclusively for the DC motors fitted to Michell turntables since the early 2000s. Older models with AC motors require the QC (Quartz Control) power supply or can be upgraded with a DC motor conversion kit.
What’s the difference between the HR Power Supply and the standard power supply that came with my turntable?
The standard supply uses a simple linear regulator powered directly from the mains. The HR Power Supply incorporates the Never Connected circuit for total isolation, a higher-quality toroidal transformer, and premium filtering components that drastically reduce residual noise.
Does the HR Power Supply really improve my turntable’s performance in an audible way?
Improvements are particularly noticeable in the tonal stability of sustained notes, bass depth, and reduction of sonic veil. The effect is comparable to upgrading to a higher-tier phono cartridge, with increased transparency and better instrument separation.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
