Cartridges: low output vs. high output


Could someone please explain why these variations exist? I have only had high output cartridges. Why is there low output? I recently saw an ad here on Audiogon where the seller stated he wanted to move back to high output…

So, what are the +’s and –‘s of each?

Thank you.

BTW, I have a Sota Star with a SME IV arm and am thinking of upgrading the cartridge.
rbschauman
In most cases the lower output is better; it requires fewer turns of wire and is generally considered to give a better sound quality. However, the high output requires less boost; can be used directly into a MM input most of the time while the LOMC requires either a much more sensitive phono preamp or a SUT. So to summaries: for absolute best performance use LOMC; but they are usually more expensive and are more demanding of associated gear. HOMC can give very good performance [ will be preferred by some] and is probably cheaper and much easier to work with.
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