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Phono Cartridge for $1,000.

Currently have Clearaudio Virtuoso MM cartridge . Wanting to go to MC. Found a Hana ML and a Sumiko Blackbird on sale for $1000. I am using a Musical Fidelity M6 phonostage so it will handle all. Is it worth it to change? If so, which one? I live in the sticks in Alabama so listening is almost impossible. 
jsal3689
bajaed
269 posts
 
I think the ART-9XA is the replacement for the ART-7, it has an output of 0.2mv. Looks like the ART-9XI is the replacement for the ART-9, it has an output of 0.5mv.
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
The XA has the Air Core Coil
bajaed
269 posts
 
What is an "Air Core Coil" chakster? I’ve never heard that term.
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
I think it means coil wire with a hollow core. I think,,,,
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
What is an "Air Core Coil" chakster? I’ve never heard that term.

The term is old
It's the opposite to an Iron Core

"Compared to the iron core type, which is the mainstream of MC cartridges, the air core type is not affected by magnetic distortion, so a natural tone color and precise sound field expression are possible" .

Another Air Core Coil type is an old Fidelity-Research FR-7fz for example 
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