Benefit of low output moving-iron Grado ?


Hi all,
I'm considering a cartridge upgrade from a high output (5mv) Grado Sonata cartridge to a moving-iron Grado Master cartridge, either a low output (.5mv) or a high output (5mv). If I choose the low output version, I would have to drop an additional $250 on a phono card for my Exposure amp, whereas I've already got the high output phono card installed.
So my question is....
a) is there a sonic improvement in low output cartridges, or is it more a matter of taste
b) I hear a kind of "shrillness" when vocalists use an "s", and with other very high frequency sounds.... is this shrillness reduced by using a low output cartridge?
c) does Grado's moving-iron type of cartridge have properties unlike moving magnet or moving coil that might be relevant to the other questions I raised?
Thanks in advance, and I always appreciate this forum.
nickyt

Showing 1 response by lewm

I have no experience with modern Grado cartridges. However, I do own a Grado TLZ, which was one of their early efforts at making a low output cartridge. (Incidentally, I don't think the Grados are classic moving iron types; I think they are "induced magnet" types, altho that is a distinction without much difference.)
The TLZ was a great cartridge in its day. On the other hand, I also don't think that all high output cartridges are inferior to all low output ones. You have to take this on a case by case basis. I have several MM cartridges that compete with any high dollar LOMC cartridge. Bottom line: you would have to try both versions of the Grado Master and make up your own mind. My opinion: given the rest of your system, you would probably be just as well off to go for the less expensive option, which I guess means the high output version of the Master. What Photon did, buying two new phono stages to try to make his low output cartridge sound OK, is nothing short of heroic, and expensive.