Compare
| Overview |
Audio-Technica
AT-OC9XEN Moving Coil Cartridge |
Ortofon
OM 5 Super Moving Magnet Cartridge |
Pro-Ject
Pick it MC2 Moving Coil Cartridge |
| Summary | AT-OC9XEN Dual moving coil stereo cartridge with Elliptical nude stylus - Features low mass nude elliptical stylus and aluminium cantilever, a neodymium magnet and pure iron yoke provide increased magnetic energy and features threaded inserts in the cartridge. Key Features:
| Super OM 5E features Elliptical stylus that provides balanced and distortion-free playback. Elliptical diamonds are able to follow the groove oscillations more accurately than spherical diamonds due to their contoured shape. This results in better tracking and less distortion. | During their in-depth research and development of True Balanced turntables and phono stages, Pro-Ject recognised the pivotal role that Moving Coil (MC) cartridges play in achieving both sonic and mechanical perfection. Only with MC cartridges can you fully take advantage of the technical benefits of a balanced connection—improving dynamics, expanding the soundstage, and, most notably, enhancing the quietness of the sound. However, the production of MC cartridges is far more intricate and costly than that of Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges. Staying true to their mission of making high-quality HiFi stereo systems more accessible, Pro-Ject introduced the Pick It MC2. The lightweight stylus and coil assembly of the MC cartridge enables a much wider frequency response and improved transient performance. This results in more detailed sound reproduction and a greater resolution of low-level signals. The lower source impedance of the MC cartridge also makes it less susceptible to external interference, resulting in reduced hum. However, because MC cartridges generally have a lower output—around 20dB less than MM cartridges—a high-quality phono stage is recommended to achieve the best performance. Fresh, Lively Sound Reproduction The new Pick It MC2 features an elliptical diamond mounted on an aluminium cantilever, delivering a richer tone and more nuanced details than the Pick It MC1. With an MC cartridge, you'll experience superior audio clarity, enhanced stereo imaging, and greater transparency compared to MM cartridges. The cartridge housing is made from resonance-optimised ABS, keeping the total weight at just 5 grams. With its medium compliance, the MC2 is a perfect match for most entry-level to mid-range turntables. Pro-Ject also sought out the finest Japanese components for the most critical parts, including the diamond and cantilever. By combining these with an affordable, high-performance motor, all housed in a specially designed, resonance-free cabinet, the Pick It MC2 offers exceptional sound at an attractive price point. |
| Reference | AT-OC9XEN | OOM5SUPER | PJAAPICKITMC1A2 |
| Specifications | |||
| Price |
£310.00
|
£75.00
|
£349.00
|
| Actions |
Audio-Technica
AT-OC9XEN Moving Coil Cartridge
Summary
- Features low mass nude elliptical stylus and aluminium cantilever
- A neodymium magnet and pure iron yoke provide increased magnetic energy
- Threaded inserts in the cartridge body enable the cartridge to be mounted on to the headshell or integral tonearm with just two screws – no nuts required
- Aluminium body minimizes unwanted vibration for reduced resonance and a superior audio reproduction
- Pure Copper by Ohno Continuous Casting process (PCOCC) is used for the coils to achieve the purest signal possible
Ortofon
OM 5 Super Moving Magnet Cartridge
Summary
Super OM 5E features Elliptical stylus that provides balanced and distortion-free playback.
Elliptical diamonds are able to follow the groove oscillations more accurately than spherical diamonds due to their contoured shape. This results in better tracking and less distortion.
OOM5SUPER
Pro-Ject
Pick it MC2 Moving Coil Cartridge
Summary
During their in-depth research and development of True Balanced turntables and phono stages, Pro-Ject recognised the pivotal role that Moving Coil (MC) cartridges play in achieving both sonic and mechanical perfection. Only with MC cartridges can you fully take advantage of the technical benefits of a balanced connection—improving dynamics, expanding the soundstage, and, most notably, enhancing the quietness of the sound.
However, the production of MC cartridges is far more intricate and costly than that of Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges. Staying true to their mission of making high-quality HiFi stereo systems more accessible, Pro-Ject introduced the Pick It MC2.
The lightweight stylus and coil assembly of the MC cartridge enables a much wider frequency response and improved transient performance. This results in more detailed sound reproduction and a greater resolution of low-level signals.
The lower source impedance of the MC cartridge also makes it less susceptible to external interference, resulting in reduced hum. However, because MC cartridges generally have a lower output—around 20dB less than MM cartridges—a high-quality phono stage is recommended to achieve the best performance.
Fresh, Lively Sound Reproduction
The new Pick It MC2 features an elliptical diamond mounted on an aluminium cantilever, delivering a richer tone and more nuanced details than the Pick It MC1. With an MC cartridge, you'll experience superior audio clarity, enhanced stereo imaging, and greater transparency compared to MM cartridges.
The cartridge housing is made from resonance-optimised ABS, keeping the total weight at just 5 grams. With its medium compliance, the MC2 is a perfect match for most entry-level to mid-range turntables.
Pro-Ject also sought out the finest Japanese components for the most critical parts, including the diamond and cantilever. By combining these with an affordable, high-performance motor, all housed in a specially designed, resonance-free cabinet, the Pick It MC2 offers exceptional sound at an attractive price point.
PJAAPICKITMC1A2