ProJect Pick It MC3 Moving Coil Cartridge

Exploring the ProJect Pick it MC3 Moving Coil Cartridge

When it comes to vinyl playback, the cartridge is a crucial component that can significantly influence the sound quality. The ProJect Pick it MC3 Moving Coil Cartridge is a standout choice for audiophiles seeking precision and musicality in their vinyl listening experience. Let’s delve into what makes this cartridge exceptional.

Design and Build Quality

The ProJect Pick it MC3 boasts an impressive design with its full aluminium body, anodised in a striking steel blue finish. This not only provides aesthetic appeal but also ensures superior build quality and rigidity. The aluminium construction helps in reducing unwanted resonances, which can otherwise affect sound clarity.

One of the unique features of this cartridge is its Hyper-Spherical diamond stylus profile, exclusive to ProJect. This stylus shape offers a greater contact area with the record groove compared to regular spherical styli, making it particularly well-suited for older and well-used vinyl records. The stylus is bonded to a cryogenically treated aluminium cantilever, enhancing its rigidity and improving its grip on the attached diamond.

Technical Specifications

The Pick it MC3 operates on the moving coil principle, which is known for delivering high-fidelity sound reproduction. It utilises ARMCO pure iron cross coils with 6N linear crystal copper winding, resulting in an output voltage of 0.4 mV. This makes it easy to amplify while maintaining excellent signal integrity.

The cartridge requires a tracking force of 2 grams/mN for optimal performance. Its design incorporates ARMCO pure iron pole pieces within the magnet system, contributing to its dynamic sound character.

Sound Performance

In terms of sound performance, the Pick it MC3 excels in delivering powerful and dynamic audio that is optimised for genres like pop and rock, as well as big orchestral classics. It brings added warmth and character to music reproduction while highlighting details that often go unnoticed with lesser cartridges.

Listeners will appreciate how this cartridge brings songs to life with a charming musical presentation that enhances all aspects of the recording. Its sound signature bears similarity to traditional “SPU” cartridges but requires less tracking force, minimising potential damage or degradation to vinyl records.

Ease of Installation

Installing the Pick it MC3 is straightforward thanks to its standard 1/2 inch mounting sockets on the top panel. The clear contours aid in precise alignment during installation. Additionally, a transparent stylus protector is included to safeguard the needle when not in use.

For those new to cartridge installation or seeking guidance, comprehensive advice and size guides are available from ProJect’s resources or local retailers who can provide assistance if needed.

Conclusion

The ProJect Pick it MC3 Moving Coil Cartridge stands out as an all-purpose solution for audiophiles who value both aesthetics and superior sound quality in their vinyl playback systems. With its innovative design features and meticulous craftsmanship using high-quality Japanese parts assembled in Europe, this cartridge promises an engaging listening experience that captures every nuance of your favourite records.

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