Grado Platinum: which is better high or lo output?

If your preamp can handle the 0.5mv output(and the mc section should) then this is no contest, go with the low output version. I use a grado reference 1.5mv(they don't make them anymore) with a VPI TNT.

Frank-

I forgot to mention my system and listening tastes.
Classe CA100, CP45, Aerius i, and I listen to music
like the rolling stones, pink floyd, and fleetwood mac.
Do you think the low output is the way to go with
this kind of music? If so...

What is the spec for the current low output Platinum?
The Grado website only lists 5mv for the Platinum.
You said the 1.5mv are discontued. So is there a newer
version of the low output platinum or do I need to
hunt for a discontinued 1.5mv..??

Thanks
Tom

My response is no way! Grado's been getting away with murder. I have a Grado cartride and I just cleaned the volume control of my low output MC preamp for the first time and the hum became even more noticeable. Shame on those people.

I've been told by the most experienced salesman in Needledoctor to go for the Ortofon Kontrapunkt A. Kenny told me it's unbelievably fast, silent and great for any type of music unlike the rest of the low output MCs.

Give them a call...

What does type of music has to do with cartridge output?

Grado Platinum isn't the end of the world; if you go for Benz-Micro Glider .8mv output version you will be OK with built-in MC-phonos. Ordering it from Hong Kong will keep your budget the same as with Grado Platinum. Very rock-friendly Dynavector 20Xl, 20XH. I assume that 20XH is more suitable for your built-in phono for the same price as Grado Platinum but overall performance is noticably audiable.
Going for the lower output than .9mV will most-likely require a good stand-alone MC phono preamp (~45dB of gain).
Low output is OK with rock and OK with any kind of music as long as you have enough gain to bring it to preamp.
Psychicanimal statement is right that the cartridge output has nothing to do with kinds of music.

Lo output is slightly better IMO. Don't know yr Classe, but would be surprised if you can't get the loading, etc., right. Mara, above, also lists some good alternative cartridges...

Cheers!