Moving Coil vs. Moving Magnet

Attribute	Moving Coil	Moving Magnet
Construction	Coil of wire attached to the cantilever	Magnet attached to the cantilever
Mass	Lighter	Heavier
Output Voltage	Lower	Higher
Impedance	Lower	Higher
Tracking Ability	Higher	Lower

Introduction

When it comes to phono cartridges, two popular types are moving coil (MC) and moving magnet (MM). Both types have their own set of attributes that make them unique and suitable for different audiophiles. In this article, we will compare the key attributes of moving coil and moving magnet cartridges to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right one for your turntable setup.

Construction

One of the main differences between moving coil and moving magnet cartridges lies in their construction. Moving coil cartridges have a coil of wire attached to the cantilever, which moves within a magnetic field generated by fixed magnets. On the other hand, moving magnet cartridges have magnets attached to the cantilever, which move within a fixed coil of wire. This fundamental difference in construction affects various aspects of the cartridge's performance.

Output Level

Output level is an important factor to consider when choosing between moving coil and moving magnet cartridges. Moving coil cartridges typically have a lower output level compared to moving magnet cartridges. This means that moving coil cartridges require a phono stage with higher gain to amplify the signal to a suitable level for your amplifier. On the other hand, moving magnet cartridges have a higher output level, making them more compatible with a wider range of phono stages and amplifiers.

Impedance and Capacitance

Another key difference between moving coil and moving magnet cartridges is their impedance and capacitance requirements. Moving coil cartridges have lower impedance and capacitance requirements compared to moving magnet cartridges. This means that moving coil cartridges are more sensitive to changes in loading, requiring careful matching with the phono stage to achieve optimal performance. Moving magnet cartridges, on the other hand, are less sensitive to loading changes, making them easier to set up and use.

Tracking Ability

Tracking ability refers to how well a cartridge can track the grooves of a record without skipping or causing distortion. Moving coil cartridges are known for their superior tracking ability compared to moving magnet cartridges. This is due to the lighter weight of the moving coil assembly, which allows for better tracking of high-frequency information in the record grooves. Moving magnet cartridges, on the other hand, may struggle with tracking high-frequency information, especially on worn or damaged records.

Sound Quality

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a phono cartridge is sound quality. Moving coil cartridges are often praised for their detailed and transparent sound reproduction. They are known for their ability to reveal subtle nuances in the music, making them popular among audiophiles who prioritize accuracy and clarity. Moving magnet cartridges, on the other hand, are often described as having a warmer and more forgiving sound signature. They may not offer the same level of detail as moving coil cartridges, but they can provide a more enjoyable listening experience for some listeners.

Price

Price is another important consideration when choosing between moving coil and moving magnet cartridges. Moving coil cartridges are typically more expensive than moving magnet cartridges. This is due to the complexity of their construction and the higher quality materials used in their design. Moving magnet cartridges, on the other hand, are more affordable and offer a good balance of performance and value for budget-conscious audiophiles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both moving coil and moving magnet cartridges have their own set of attributes that make them unique and suitable for different types of listeners. Moving coil cartridges offer superior tracking ability and sound quality, but they come at a higher price point and require careful setup. Moving magnet cartridges, on the other hand, are more affordable and easier to set up, making them a great choice for beginners or casual listeners. Ultimately, the choice between moving coil and moving magnet cartridges will depend on your budget, listening preferences, and the rest of your audio system.