What should I expect moving from MM to MC?


I understand it depends on the setup, so I'll start here. I'm starting small (in my quest for music Nirvana!):

  • Denon PMA-600NE (70W, dedicated analog wiring, also a "source direct" feature that by passes the bass/treble/balance circuitry)
  • Klipsch RP-500M bookshelves
  • Klipsch 12" Sub
  • Mofi Studiodeck turntable

 

I was considering moving from my Sumiko Olympia MM cartridge to the Sumiko Blue Point No.3 MC Hi. 

 

Nothing but praise for the Blue Point in all reviews. But will I noticeably hear a clearer, fuller, warmer sound? Or is it a waste on money, focus elsewhere.

Thanks in advance!

 

mucker

Showing 1 response by melm

+1 for what @alvinnir2 has written.

The way I would put it is that the movement to a MC cartridge would be expected to give you more of what we used to call low level information. That translates principally to things not available in the specification of a cartridge. The include space, instrumental articulation, & solidity or roundness of the instrumental sound. These things all contribute to the sense of being there in the recording. That would be the good news.

The not so good news IMO is that a high output MC is not likely to provide these benefits because the stylus, like that in MM cartridges, is just carrying too much weight at the other end. Also, you might also have to invest more in the rest of your system to fully appreciate these improvements.

I pay very little attention to reviews. They are just there to sell. Consensus opinions of actual purchasers, as fond in places like this have never failed me. It takes a bit longer to figure out but it pays in the long run. Not like the quick fix of a review.