Phono stage matching - how critical


How critical is it to use an MM cartridge with an MM phono stage and an MC cartridge with an MC phono stage?
My phono stage is designed for an MM cartridge; however I'm using a Benz Glider on my Classic 3. The Glider is high output so I'm not having any issue with gain. But would my system sound better if I used an MM cartridge such as the Soundsmith Zephyr?
rockyboy

Showing 2 responses by bpoletti

Lewm - Minimum should be 1:100 ratio between the two. It is supported by more than one manufacturer.
The more critical matching is the phono stage to the preamp / line stage. If the phono stage is a tube unit with higher output impedance and the preamp / line stage is a low input impedance solid state unit. the mismatch will negatively impact the phono stage performance.