2. analog
  3. 175336-76724

MM vs MC Cartridges

I have all High Output phono Cartridges on 2 TT's. One is a Thorens TD 1601 and a Technics 1210. My Cartridges are Ortofon 2M Black, Sumiko Blue Point Special EVO III, Ortofon 2M Bronze & HANA EH. My Phono Pre is McIntosh MP100. My integrated Amp Prima Luna Dialogue Premium HP with EL 34's.

I'll be replacing the EL 34's for New KT 120's. I want to Buy a Low Output phono cartridge but I'm afraid I won't get the performance from Low Output cartridges, like HANA ML and others. I do play above 76db in my 350 Sq Ft Retirement Home room. I don't worry about disturbing my Neighbors as they All have hearing loss issues.

I don't want to buy a $1,000+ MC Low output Cartridge only to find my Audio Gear is not up to the Job. My speakers are Joseph Audio Perspectives, Kimber Bifocal XL's Cables. My hearing is excellent for a 71 yr old Man, I'm always in the Rabbit Hole for the last 53 years. It's what I spend my Pension on. What do you think?

Joe

 

 

128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xgriptube
mr_m
1,900 posts
 

I have listened to a Ortofon 2m Black and I can tell you you don't  need anywhere near $3K+  to better it. IMO

jim5559
604 posts
 

I have listened to the Nag200 and I can tell you need nothing more .

goofyfoot
1,342 posts
 

I’m dealing with the situation but I’m helping a friend with his vinyl rig and I believe a low output cartridge would be too much of a challenge for his Rega phono amp. 
So, how about medium output cartridges? I know they’re out there. Can people name some medium output cartridges so that I have a reference?
Thanks!

holmz's avatar
holmz
2,328 posts
 

I’m dealing with the situation but I’m helping a friend with his vinyl rig and I believe a low output cartridge would be too much of a challenge for his Rega phono amp.
So, how about medium output cartridges? I know they’re out there. Can people name some medium output cartridges so that I have a reference?

What gain?

What $ level

Have you looked at Moving Iron?

vinylvalet
877 posts
 

I prefer well made MM/MI cartridges to MC. I'm currently running the Grado Statement3 on my SME 20/3. Several folks that have heard this rig have also switched from MC to MM, one retiring an expensive Air Tight.

In your price range, I would recommend the Grado Master3.

SoundSmith also makes excellent high output MI cartridges. In your price range, look into the Carmen. No one comes close to their rebuild price; 20% of retail.

More to discover