NAD D3045 with OM5E cartridge - compatible/good match?


My new OM5E requires a listening at very high volume settings to play at decent volume (relative to line level sources or digital inputs) on my NAD D3020v2.

The OM5E is a MM cartridge which is what the NAD requires, but could it be that that OM5E is not a output/gain match for the NAD?

NAD specs: https://nadelectronics.com/product/d-3020v2-hybrid-digital-amplifier/
OM5E specs: https://www.ortofon.com/om-5e-p-551

thanks
ctownj30
Hmm. Something's not right if it requires you to play back this cart at high volume settings.

The cartridge has a 4 mV output, which is healthy, and the phono input has a stated sensitivity of 1.15 mV, which is somewhat on the low side, unless that is a typo. For comparison, NAD's phono module that I have in a C375BEE integrated amp has a phono sensitivity of 18 mV, considerably higher. I would think they would have used the same circuitry. I would contact NAD directly with this question. Your cartridge and that phono stage should be compatible and at a volume of 9 o'clock, it should be rocking.

Contact:  support@nadelectronics.com and ask for Erich S.

Steve