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Phono stage matching - how critical

How critical is it to use an MM cartridge with an MM phono stage and an MC cartridge with an MC phono stage?
My phono stage is designed for an MM cartridge; however I'm using a Benz Glider on my Classic 3. The Glider is high output so I'm not having any issue with gain. But would my system sound better if I used an MM cartridge such as the Soundsmith Zephyr?
rockyboy
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Your using the proper type of phono stage for your cartridge so your good.
Now whether your system would sound better using a Soundsmith Zephr, well only your ears could tell that. You would have to try it and tell us which you prefer.
mesch
3,484 posts
 
I have always like the sound of HOMC cartridges over that of MM into MM phonostages. They seemed to be more exciting and dynamic. Must add that I was always dealing with ~$300 cartridges. Can’t speak to those in a higher price bracket.
lewm
13,070 posts
 
What they all said. Contrary to Mesch's opinion, I prefer MM and MI cartridges, as a class, to HOMC cartridges, as a class. In fact, I once owned two successive versions of the Benz Glider myself. I find that any of the better MM/MI cartridges are preferable, to my ears in my system. There is no right or wrong in this case.
wrm57
1,045 posts
 
Which MM/MI do you prefer, Lewm? Just curious.
zavato's avatar
zavato
1,403 posts
 
By the way the Soundsmith isn't an mm design- a point suggested by some of the responses to the op.
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