Question regarding cartridge outputs...

Restock, yes you are correct in assuming that these are two different cartridges. Piedpiper hit the nail on the head as for why I was asking. I use an all tube phono stage w/out any SUT's and have been contemplating getting a new cartridge. I've always noticed that some list the output referenced to 3.54 and others to 5cm/sec. I knew that it would relate to a difference in gain but wasn't sure as to which would sound louder. In my case, it could mean the difference of hearing tube rush if having to turn the volume controls up too high to compensate for the lower output.

I found it interesting that a .6mV rated at 3.54cm/second would have an output of .85mV in a track with a groove velocity of 5cm/second. Could you share the formula in order for me to calculate various output comparisons like that?

Thanks to all for their input and helping me understand this more fully.

I currently am using a Benz MO.9 which is said to be .9mV @ 3.54cm/second. If I were to switch to the Ruby3H which is said to be .7mV @ 3.54cm/second.....how much difference in gain would I lose? Would it be very noticeable? Can it be expressed in db?

Thanks again.

Could you share the formula in order for me to calculate various output comparisons like that?

I just simply assumed a linear relation between the output and the velocity. That is 0.6mV at 3.54 translates to (0.6mV/3.54)*5 = 0.85mV.

I will make sure to check whether the linear assumption is good or whether my guess is wrong. In any case, cartridge 2 will play louder.

I guess that was correct:

From the Audio Glossary:

Velocity-Sensitive: If a phono cartridge is velocity-sensitive, its output is proportional to the recorded velocity at all frequencies. Magnetic phono cartridges are velocity-sensitive. A magnetic cartridge will produce a flat frequency response playing a constant-velocity recording characteristic. When playing a constant amplitude recording, its output increases as the frequency rises.