Phono cartridges are the unsung heroes of the vinyl record playback system. They are responsible for converting the physical vibrations of the stylus as it tracks the record grooves into an electrical signal that can be amplified and played back through your speakers. As such, the quality and type of phono cartridge you choose will have a significant impact on the overall sound quality of your turntable setup.
There are several different types of phono cartridges available on the market, each with its own unique sound characteristics and technical specifications. Moving magnet (MM) cartridges are the most common type of phono cartridge and are often found on entry-level turntables. They are known for their high output, which means they can be used with a wider range of preamps and receivers. MM cartridges are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types, making them a popular choice for beginners.
Moving coil (MC) cartridges are the other major type of phono cartridge. They are known for their high-end sound quality and superior tracking ability, making them a popular choice among audiophiles. MC cartridges have a lower output than MM cartridges, which means they require a special phono preamp or step-up transformer to boost the signal to the required level. They are also more expensive than MM cartridges, which means they are generally reserved for higher-end turntable setups.
Within each type of cartridge, there are further distinctions to be made. For example, MM cartridges can be further categorized into bonded and nude types. Bonded cartridges have the stylus bonded to the cantilever, while nude cartridges have the stylus attached directly to the moving magnet. Nude cartridges are considered to be of higher quality, but they are also more fragile and require more careful handling.
MC cartridges can be categorized into high-output and low-output types. High-output MC cartridges have a higher output than low-output MC cartridges, which means they can be used with a wider range of phono preamps and receivers. However, low-output MC cartridges are considered to be of higher quality, as they produce a more accurate sound with less distortion.
How do Phono cartridges work
Phono cartridges are small devices that convert the mechanical energy of the stylus as it tracks the grooves of a vinyl record into an electrical signal that can be amplified and played back through speakers.
The stylus, or needle, of the cartridge is attached to a cantilever, which is a small arm that moves up and down as it tracks the grooves of the record. The cantilever is attached to a tiny magnet, which is located near a set of coils. As the magnet moves up and down with the cantilever, it generates an electrical signal in the coils, which is then amplified and sent to the speakers.
There are two main types of phono cartridges: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). In an MM cartridge, the magnet is attached to the end of the cantilever and moves within a fixed set of coils. In an MC cartridge, the coils are attached to the cantilever and move within a fixed magnet.
MM cartridges are known for their high output, which means they can be used with a wider range of preamps and receivers. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to MC cartridges. MC cartridges, on the other hand, are known for their superior tracking ability and high-end sound quality. They require a special phono preamp or step-up transformer to boost the signal to the required level, but are generally considered to be the preferred choice for serious audiophiles.
Moving Magnet
Moving magnet (MM) is a type of phono cartridge commonly used in turntables to reproduce the sound recorded on vinyl records. The MM cartridge is designed to track the record grooves with a stylus, or needle, that is attached to a cantilever, which is a small arm that moves up and down as it tracks the grooves of the record. The cantilever is attached to a small magnet, which moves within a fixed set of coils as it tracks the record grooves. This generates an electrical signal that can be amplified and played back through speakers.
MM cartridges are known for their high output, which means they can be used with a wider range of preamps and receivers. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of cartridges, making them a popular choice for entry-level turntables. The high output of MM cartridges makes them less sensitive to noise and other distortions that can occur in the audio signal chain.
There are two main types of MM cartridges: bonded and nude. Bonded cartridges have the stylus bonded to the cantilever, while nude cartridges have the stylus attached directly to the moving magnet. Nude cartridges are considered to be of higher quality, as they have a more direct connection between the stylus and magnet, resulting in a more accurate sound reproduction. However, they are also more fragile and require more careful handling than bonded cartridges.
Overall, the moving magnet cartridge is a popular choice for turntable enthusiasts due to its affordability, high output, and wide compatibility with preamps and receivers. Whether you are just starting out with vinyl or looking to upgrade your setup, an MM cartridge can provide a great listening experience at an accessible price point.
Moving Coil
Moving coil (MC) is another type of phono cartridge used in turntables to reproduce the sound recorded on vinyl records. MC cartridges work on the same principle as MM cartridges, but with some differences in their design.
In an MC cartridge, the coils are attached to the cantilever and move within a fixed magnet as it tracks the record grooves. This generates a much smaller electrical signal than an MM cartridge, which is why MC cartridges require a special phono preamp or step-up transformer to boost the signal to the required level. However, this lower output also allows for a greater level of accuracy and detail in the sound reproduction, making MC cartridges a popular choice among audiophiles.
There are two main types of MC cartridges: high-output and low-output. High-output MC cartridges have a higher output than low-output MC cartridges, which means they can be used with a wider range of phono preamps and receivers. However, low-output MC cartridges are considered to be of higher quality, as they produce a more accurate sound with less distortion.
The design of MC cartridges also allows for greater flexibility in their shape and size, allowing manufacturers to create cartridges with a range of stylus shapes and sizes to suit different record types and sizes. This can result in a more accurate and detailed sound reproduction, especially for high-frequency sounds and complex musical passages.
Comparing MM vs MC Cartridges
Moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges are two types of phono cartridges used in turntables to reproduce the sound of vinyl records. While both types of cartridges serve the same function, there are some key differences between them that affect their performance and suitability for different listening environments.
One of the main differences between MM and MC cartridges is their output level. MM cartridges have a higher output level than MC cartridges, which means they can be used with a wider range of preamps and receivers. They are also less sensitive to noise and other distortions that can occur in the audio signal chain. This makes MM cartridges a popular choice for entry-level turntables and for those looking for a more affordable option.
On the other hand, MC cartridges are known for their superior sound quality and accuracy. They are able to track the grooves of a record with greater precision, resulting in a more detailed and nuanced sound. This is due in part to their lower output level, which allows for a greater level of accuracy and detail in the sound reproduction. MC cartridges are generally considered to be the preferred choice for serious audiophiles and those looking to achieve the highest level of fidelity from their turntable setup.
Another difference between MM and MC cartridges is their construction. MM cartridges have a fixed magnet and a moving coil, while MC cartridges have a fixed coil and a moving magnet. The design of MC cartridges allows for greater flexibility in the shape and size of the cartridge, which can result in a more accurate sound reproduction, especially for high-frequency sounds and complex musical passages.
Popular Cartridge manufacturers
There are many manufacturers of phono cartridges on the market, each with their own unique design, sound characteristics, and technical specifications. Here are some of the most popular and respected cartridge manufacturers:
Audio-Technica
A Japanese company that produces a wide range of phono cartridges, including both MM and MC types. Audio-Technica cartridges are known for their excellent sound quality and durability, and they are often used by DJs and recording professionals.
Ortofon
A Danish company that has been producing phono cartridges since 1948. Ortofon cartridges are known for their precision engineering and attention to detail, resulting in a high level of accuracy and detail in the sound reproduction. They offer both MM and MC cartridges, with a range of models to suit different listening environments and budgets.
Grado
An American company that has been producing phono cartridges since the 1950s. Grado cartridges are known for their warm and natural sound, with a focus on midrange frequencies. They offer both MM and MC cartridges, with a range of models to suit different listening preferences and budgets.
Denon
A Japanese company that produces a range of high-quality audio equipment, including phono cartridges. Denon cartridges are known for their accurate and detailed sound reproduction, with a particular focus on high frequencies. They offer both MM and MC cartridges, with a range of models to suit different listening environments and budgets.
Shure
An American company that has been producing phono cartridges since the 1930s. Shure cartridges are known for their high output and durability, making them a popular choice for DJs and recording professionals. They offer both MM and MC cartridges, with a range of models to suit different listening preferences and budgets.