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Chapter 9-Phono Cartridges

A discussion on turntables wouldn't be complete without a chapter devoted to phono cartridges. A phono cartridge is the enclosure that contains the sylus (playing needle) along with internal magnets and copper coil windings.

Basically, there are two types of cartridges: moving magnet and moving coil (also known as moving iron). Moving magnet is the most popular type and can be used with receivers or amplifiers with provisions to use a turntable (the receiver/amplifier will have a switch labelled "phono"). Moving coil cartridges, on the other hand, produce much lower sound levels so they need additional amplification to produce adequate loudness. A receiver or amplifier that is already able to accomodate a turntable must, therefore, have a "moving coil input" (another provision) because of the lower output level (loudness). If the receiver/amplifier doesn't have this type of input, a "step-up transformer" or "pre-preamp" must be connected between the turntable and receiver/amplifier. Also, unlike the stylus of a moving magnet cartridge, that of the moving coil cartridge usually cannot be replaced by the user when worn. The entire cartridge has to be sent to the manufacturer for stylus replacement.

Despite the inconveniences associated with moving coil cartridges they are preferred by many audiophiles (audio enthusiasts) for their sound quality. Moving coil cartridges have a reputation for "smooth and transparent" highs (high frequencies) that extend beyond the range of audibility and result in a very natural and warm sound that effortlessly reveals subtle details. Also, recently there has been an introduction of moving coil cartridges that don't require a moving coil input.