2. analog
  3. 162693-107768

MC cartridge High output vs Low output

Looking for an advise. I always used MM cartridges with my Sansui AU717 integrated amp. It has a built in phono stage rated 2.5 mV/47kilohms. I'm considering a high output MC cartridge with 2-2.5 mV output. Most of the reviews of MC cartridges are about low output models. Would appreciate comments if someone tested and compared high and low output cartridges (assuming the same make and model). Trying to understand the actual impact of the heavier coil in a high output cartridge. Thanks!
discodrom
discodrom OP
2 posts
 
Thanks! Will read the reviews on these MMs. Before I started looking at MC models I was considering Ortofon 2M bronze or black.

lewm
13,168 posts
 
Here we go again. Effective mass or tip mass or moving mass cannot be the whole story, because if it were then moving iron cartridges would sound the best. Moving iron cartridges not moving coil cartridges, have the lowest moving mass as a group. I agree with whoever it is that’said by and large low output versions of moving coil cartridges sound better than their high output version. Furthermore, I prefer the best moving magnet and moving iron cartridges over any high output moving coil cartridge that I have ever heard. There are several threads on this issue and all of us have said all of this before.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,860 posts
 
@discodrom If you are looking at the 2M Black, consider the Audio Technica VM750SH or VM760ML. Quieter in the groove than the Ortofon.
discodrom OP
2 posts
 
Thank you!
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
Audio Technica fan here too. Been using their MCs for years. Both the OC9 MKIIIs and the ART-9. Over-achievers for sure.

Frank
More to discover