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high output mc cartridge into vintage ARC sp-6 preamp?

Hello:

Asking for knowledge-based input to help solve a synergy/compatibility question:

I'm considering upgrading the lowly cartridge I've been using these past 4 years or so. Thinking to try a moving coil design. But it'll have to be a high output one because I use the phono amp that is in the preamp: a 1989 Audio Research SP-6. (I'm not going to get a separate dedicated phono preamp.)

The cart that has currently caught my eye is the Hana EH, or maybe the Hana SH. The output of each of these high output MC cartridges is 2mV.

Is that enough output for the internal phono amp in my SP-6? The power amp is an Audio Research D90.

Also: the turntable is a Rega Planar 2 with an RB250 tone arm. The Hana cartridge is kind of light at 5 grams - is that compatible with an RB250?

Thanks in advance



plink-plonk
plink-plonk OP
12 posts
 

Thanks fellas.
With this info I researched the recommended cartridges and have decided to get a Nagaoka, either the MP-150 or the MP-200. It is widely held that the Nagaokas match well with RB250 tone arms. And those carts get rave reviews wow.
Sorted!

noromance's avatar
noromance
9,776 posts
 
@plink-plonk Excellent. Enjoy.
plink-plonk OP
12 posts
 
Noromance: just a late follow up 
I went with your recommendation of Nagaoka, got the model 150 (green one), middle of their range. It’s fantastic, a great upgrade, sounds so good. Anyway it was a good tip. Thank you!
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,911 posts
 
Hard to go wrong w Nakagoka, I bet your system sounds wonderful!!! Enjoy the music
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