Sumiko

Sumiko has long been known for the superior performance of their phono cartridges, especially their high- and low-output moving coil models, and we've been selling them for over 30 years. Two of their most popular models have been the Blue Point Special Evo III and the Blackbird models. Historically, these models have only been available as high-output versions. Now, with more and more preamplifiers and phono preamplifiers having the ability to accept low-output moving coils, Sumiko has decided to release low-output versions of these two cartridges. Because the coils used in these new models can be smaller, there is lower moving mass for the stylus/cantilever/coil assembly, improving the transient response and the ability to track fast-moving transients in the record grooves. Fewer turns of wire in the coils also reduces inductance and improves frequency response. Thus, both of these new versions give the superior performance that is expected from low-output moving coil cartridges. The low-output versions are priced exactly the same as the high-output versions, $499 for the Blue Point special and $1099 for the Blackbird.