2. analog
  3. 179529-171300

What should I expect moving from MM to MC?

I understand it depends on the setup, so I'll start here. I'm starting small (in my quest for music Nirvana!):

  • Denon PMA-600NE (70W, dedicated analog wiring, also a "source direct" feature that by passes the bass/treble/balance circuitry)
  • Klipsch RP-500M bookshelves
  • Klipsch 12" Sub
  • Mofi Studiodeck turntable

 

I was considering moving from my Sumiko Olympia MM cartridge to the Sumiko Blue Point No.3 MC Hi. 

 

Nothing but praise for the Blue Point in all reviews. But will I noticeably hear a clearer, fuller, warmer sound? Or is it a waste on money, focus elsewhere.

Thanks in advance!

 

mucker
mucker OP
12 posts
 

@tablejockey I like the idea of the pre-amp. A friend of mine recommended this, as well. Do I then route the pre-amp into the Denon amp phono inputs? Or other?

mucker OP
12 posts
 

Thank you @lewm . Your response makes sense. I am going to look into the pre-amp first with my current setup. From there I can dabble with the cartridge, if necessary. I'll look at both of the recommended ones.

secretguy
1,693 posts
 

High output MC really diminishes the supposed advantages of the MC design.

I'd probably keep saving to get a nice phono stage and low output MC.

mucker OP
12 posts
 

Based on all the feedback, I went ahead and ordered the Schiit Mani 2. I'll start there. It gives me  the option to move to a low output MC cart if I want to in the future.

edcyn
1,876 posts
 

Broadly based apples-to-oranges comparisons between MC and MM are always dangerous, misleading and wrong-headed but, heck, I'm gonna do it anyway.  MC carts give you more bass and more treble while MM carts give you more midrange. MC carts give you more precise imaging and soundstaging while MM carts make the images slightly larger and more visceral & attractive. Putting it another way, MC cartridges are more audiophile/detail friendly while MM carts tend to let you just enjoy the tunes.

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