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From: wjm@lcuxc.UUCP (B. Mitchell)
Newsgroups: net.audio
Subject: MC cartridges
Message-ID: <152@lcuxc.UUCP>
Date: Tue, 15-Jan-85 12:40:38 EST
Article-I.D.: lcuxc.152
Posted: Tue Jan 15 12:40:38 1985
Date-Received: Wed, 16-Jan-85 05:59:48 EST
Organization: Bell Communications Research, Inc.
Lines: 24


In general, MC cartridges tend to be better performers than the MM variety,
which is why audiophiles have put up with their bad points - low output
requiring a step up device (head amp or transformer), stylus not user
replaceable, and somewhat higher tracking force needs than some MM designs
(but better tracking ability than most MM's).
However, like most "rules" in hi-fi, there are some exceptions:
1.  There are some bad MC cartridges out there - not all MCs are great.  In
particular there are some MMs that are better than MCs in the under $200 class.
2.  The Shure V-15VMR is an outstanding cartridge, especially at its discounted
price of $125-150 from mail order houses.  Since it is an MM, you can change
the stylus, and you don't need a step up device, yet it outperforms any
cartridge that I know of selling for under $300 or so, MM or MC.
3.  There are some "high output" MC cartridges that do not require step-up
devices, but I think the Shure V-15VMR outperforms any of them.
Therefore my recommendations are,
If you are looking for a cartridge that sells for under $300, go with the
Shure V15-VMR (be sure to get the MR version, earlier V15-V's were not as good)
Otherwise, look at a high end ($300 to 500) MC like the Denons or Dynavectors,
IF you have a top-of-the-line turntable and arm that can take advantage of them
AND feel their superior performance warrants the additional cash (this may be
true if you have a high-end system).
Regards,
Bill Mitchell ({ihnp4!}lcuxc!wjm)