ClearAudio Maestro v2

The Maestro v2 by ClearAudio is a moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge that embodies the German manufacturer’s expertise and craftsmanship in analog sound reproduction. This evolution of the renowned original Maestro pushes the boundaries of MM technology to deliver exceptional listening quality, rivaling some much more expensive moving coil (MC) cartridges.

Refined Design for Optimal Performance

The Maestro v2 features a stunning hand-polished ebony housing, chosen not only for its elegant aesthetics but also for its superior acoustic properties. This dense, resonance-resistant wood provides a more natural and neutral sound compared to standard aluminum or resin housings. This meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the cartridge’s design.

At the heart of the Maestro v2 is a next-generation MM generator, the result of advanced engineering. ClearAudio has optimized the balance between inductance, capacitance, load, and sensitivity to significantly reduce distortion and crosstalk while increasing output level and frequency response. The coils have been completely redesigned, and powerful magnets have been integrated, significantly enhancing the cartridge’s overall performance.

Precision Stylus for Faithful Playback

The Maestro v2 is equipped with a Micro HD diamond stylus, cut with extreme precision to achieve a profile very close to the original cutting stylus. This ultra-fine stylus is mounted on a boron cantilever, a material chosen for its exceptional rigidity and low mass. This combination enables highly accurate tracking of record grooves, capturing even the subtlest nuances and details of the recording.

Impeccable craftsmanship and tight assembly tolerances ensure perfect channel symmetry and minimal distortion. The result is a soundstage with remarkable stability and precision, offering channel separation exceeding 32 dB.

A Refined and Musical Sound Signature

The Maestro v2 stands out for its ability to deliver sound reproduction that is both detailed and musical. The midrange is particularly well-controlled, offering a rich tonal density and harmonic richness that bring instruments and vocals to life. The bass is deep and well-defined without ever becoming overwhelming, while the treble is airy and detailed with no trace of harshness.

The soundstage produced by the Maestro v2 is impressively wide and three-dimensional. Instruments are precisely positioned in space, creating a stable and coherent stereo image. This cartridge excels in reproducing natural ambiances and reverberations, allowing the listener to feel truly immersed in the recording.

Remarkable Versatility

Despite its high-end performance, the Maestro v2 remains a relatively easy-to-use MM cartridge that integrates seamlessly into existing systems. Its weight of 8.5 grams, recommended tracking force of 2.2 grams, and moderate compliance make it compatible with a wide range of quality tonearms. It pairs particularly well with ClearAudio tonearms but also delivers excellent results on many other high-end turntables.

The high output level of 4.2 mV allows the Maestro v2 to work perfectly with most MM phono preamps on the market, without requiring an additional gain stage. This makes it an excellent option for audiophiles seeking MC-like performance without the need to invest in a specialized preamp.

Significant Evolution from Its Predecessor

Compared to the original Maestro, the v2 version brings notable improvements in several key areas. The new ebony housing provides better resonance control, contributing to a more stable and precise soundstage. The optimized generator delivers higher output levels and better channel separation, enhancing dynamics and stereo image definition.

The new Micro HD stylus, combined with the boron cantilever, offers finer groove tracking, resulting in more detailed high frequencies and improved transient response. These technical advancements translate into a more immersive and musical listening experience, with an increased ability to reveal the subtleties of recordings.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

• Cartridge mass: 8.4 g (± 0.4 g)
• Cartridge body: Ebony wood

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Output voltage (1 kHz, 5 cm / s): ~ 3.6 mV
• Channel separation (1 kHz): 28 dB
• Channel balance (1 kHz): 0.3 dB
• Tracking ability: 90 μm
• Compliance: 16 μm / mN

Mechanical Characteristics

• Recommended tracking force: 2.2 g ± 0.3 g
• Materials: Boron, High-definition diamond (stylus and cantilever)

Electrical Characteristics

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