ClearAudio Virtuoso v2

The Virtuoso v2 is a moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge designed by the German manufacturer ClearAudio. An evolution of the original Virtuoso model, this new version introduces significant improvements to deliver exceptional sound quality for discerning audiophiles. Let’s explore the features and performance of this reference cartridge in detail.

A Hand-Polished Ebony Body for Controlled Resonance

The Virtuoso v2 stands out with its hand-polished ebony body, a material choice that is far from random. Ebony, a dense and compact wood, offers excellent mechanical resonance absorption properties. ClearAudio claims that this ebony body provides a more natural sound reproduction compared to traditional aluminum or resin housings. This design aims to minimize unwanted coloration and preserve the purity of the musical signal.

The body also incorporates a metal plate, further enhancing its ability to control resonance. This meticulous attention to eliminating parasitic vibrations reflects ClearAudio’s commitment to optimizing acoustic performance in every design detail.

Powerful Magnets for Extended Dynamics

One of the major advancements in the Virtuoso v2 lies in the use of more powerful magnets at the core of its generator. These enhanced magnets enable significantly extended dynamics compared to the previous model. In practical terms, this translates to a better ability to reproduce variations in sound intensity, from the most delicate pianissimos to the most intense fortissimos.

This improvement in dynamics contributes to a more lively and engaging music reproduction. Contrasts are better preserved, offering a listening experience closer to the original performance.

Optimized Coil Design for Enhanced Performance

ClearAudio has also redesigned the coils in the Virtuoso v2. This optimization, combined with the more powerful magnets, has significantly improved several key parameters:

• The output level has been increased to 4.0 mV, making it easier to pair with a wide range of phono preamps.
• Channel separation now exceeds 30 dB, ensuring a precise and well-defined stereo image.
• Channel balance has been refined to less than 0.4 dB, ensuring perfect sonic symmetry.
• The frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, covering the entire audible spectrum with great linearity.

These technical improvements result in a notable reduction in distortion and crosstalk, delivering a purer and more transparent sound reproduction.

A High-Precision Elliptical Diamond

The Virtuoso v2’s stylus features an elliptical diamond tip, cut and polished with extreme precision. This elliptical shape ensures optimal contact with the record grooves, enabling faithful playback of the recorded information.

The meticulous cutting and polishing of the diamond help minimize record wear while maximizing the extraction of sonic details. This high-quality craftsmanship contributes to the cartridge’s longevity and the preservation of your valuable vinyl collection.

Compliance Suited to a Wide Range of Tonearms

With a compliance of 90 μm/mN, the Virtuoso v2 falls into the category of medium-compliance cartridges. This makes it compatible with a wide variety of tonearms, from medium-mass models to lighter arms.

The recommended tracking force ranges from 1.8 to 2.6 grams, with an optimal setting at 2.4 grams. This range provides flexibility for fine-tuning performance based on your specific setup.

A Balanced and Musical Sound Signature

Users of the Virtuoso v2 often praise its balanced and natural sound signature. The cartridge is characterized by:

• A wide and well-structured soundstage, offering excellent instrument spatialization.
• Airy and detailed highs, free from harshness or excessive brightness.
• A rich and well-defined midrange, accurately reproducing vocals and acoustic instruments.
• Firm and articulate bass, providing body and depth to the sound.

This tonal neutrality, combined with high precision, allows the Virtuoso v2 to adapt effortlessly to all musical genres.

A Marked Evolution from the Original Version

Compared to the original Virtuoso, the v2 represents a clear progression in several areas:

• The ebony body replaces the previous wooden housing, offering better resonance control.
• The output level increases from 3.6 mV to 4.0 mV, simplifying compatibility with preamps.
• Channel separation improves from 26 dB to over 30 dB.
• Channel balance is refined from 0.8 dB to less than 0.4 dB.

These technical advancements translate into audible improvements in precision, dynamics, and neutrality.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

• Cartridge mass: 8.4 g (± 0.4 g)
• Cartridge body: ebony

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Output voltage (1 kHz, 5 cm/s): ~ 3.6 mV
• Channel separation (1 kHz): 26 dB
• Channel balance (1 kHz): 0.4 dB
• Tracking ability: 90 μm
• Compliance: 15 μm / mN

Electrical Characteristics

• Coil impedance (1 kHz): 0.66 kΩ
• Coil inductance: 400 mH
• Load resistance: 47 kΩ
• Load capacitance: 100 pF

Mechanical Components

• Recommended tracking force: 2.2 g (± 0.3 g)
• Cantilever and stylus: aluminum, elliptical