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

 

 

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Cartridge gain is levelled solely by the phono preamp, not the output gain. Acquire an adjustable gain pre and enjoy.

 

My carts vary from .26 to 4.5 mv, all the same output from the pre.

 

I thought same a while ago, but working with HO cartridges is much simpler and cheaper.

The MP100 will handle all but the lowest output MC cartridges just fine, so if you're happy with the rest of your gear you should be able to determine whether you like a MC cartridge better. I like and use both, and the differences are not always predictable.

I echo Fuzztone. Get a step-up transformer from kandkaudio.com. Your MC cart will get the authority it needs.