Pro-Ject Pick It MC-1
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Overview
Pro-Ject, the renowned Austrian audio manufacturer, introduces the Pick It MC-1, a new moving coil cartridge. With this product, the brand aims to make MC technology more accessible to audiophiles by combining high-quality sound with an attractive price point.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Everyone
The Pick It MC-1 embodies Pro-Ject’s commitment to making moving coil (MC) technology available to a wider audience. Traditionally reserved for high-end systems, MC cartridges deliver superior sound quality thanks to their lighter and more responsive design. Pro-Ject rises to the challenge by offering an entry-level MC cartridge without compromising on quality.
This cartridge is the result of extensive research conducted by Pro-Ject during the development of its “True Balanced” turntables and phono stages. The goal was to create an MC cartridge capable of fully leveraging the benefits of a balanced connection, particularly in terms of dynamics, soundstage, and noise-free operation.
Thoughtful Design for Optimal Performance
The Pick It MC-1 stands out with its meticulous design. Its low-resonance ABS housing, weighing approximately 5 grams, features threaded inserts for easy mounting. This lightweight construction, combined with a medium compliance of 18 μm/mN, ensures optimal compatibility with most entry- and mid-level turntables and tonearms.
At the heart of the cartridge is a spherical stylus mounted on an aluminum cantilever. The generator consists of an N40H neodymium magnet and pure OFC 6N copper square coils. This lightweight assembly delivers excellent frequency response and superior transient response compared to traditional MM cartridges.
Sound Quality That Exceeds Its Class
The Pick It MC-1 impresses with its exceptional sound performance for its price range. It offers clarity and transparency far superior to MM cartridges in the same category, and even some in higher ranges. The sound reproduction is characterized by remarkable resolution of low-level signals, revealing the finest details in your favorite recordings.
The soundstage and stereo imaging are particularly impressive for a cartridge in this class. The bass is nuanced and precise, with excellent dynamics. Vocals exhibit the presence and realism typical of MC cartridges, delivering an immersive and emotional listening experience.
Seamless Integration into Your Audio System
The Pick It MC-1 is designed to integrate seamlessly into a wide variety of audio systems. Its output voltage of 0.4 mV at 1 kHz (3.54 cm/sec) is typical of MC cartridges and requires a quality phono preamp to maximize its performance.
The cartridge offers a tracking force range of 1.8 to 2.1 grams, with a recommended value of 1.9 grams. This flexibility allows for precise adjustments based on your tonearm and listening preferences. The recommended load impedance is between 100 and 470 Ω, ensuring optimal compatibility with a wide range of phono preamps.
A Smart Investment for Budding Audiophiles
The Pick It MC-1 is an excellent choice for music enthusiasts looking to step into the world of moving coil cartridges without breaking the bank. It provides an affordable entry point into MC technology, allowing users to experience its benefits without major compromises in sound quality.
This cartridge is also an attractive option for owners of entry- or mid-level turntables seeking to significantly enhance their system’s performance. Its exceptional value for money makes it a smart investment for anyone looking to elevate their vinyl listening experience.
Technical Specifications
Construction
- Pro-Ject Audio design
- Resonance-optimized ABS housing
- Standard 12.7 mm mount
- Threaded holes for easy nut-free installation
- Cartridge weight: 5 g
Components
- N40H neodymium magnet
- Square generator coil
- Pure 6N oxygen-free copper (OFC) winding
- Spherical diamond stylus mounted on an aluminum cantilever
Electrical Characteristics
- Principle: Moving Coil (MC)
- Output voltage at 1 kHz: 0.4 mV (3.54 cm/s)
- Channel separation at 1 kHz: > 27 dB
- Recommended load impedance: 100-470 Ω
Performance
- Tracking ability at 315 Hz: 70 μm
- Dynamic compliance: 18 μm/mN
- Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz ± 1 dB
- Stylus type: Spherical on aluminum cantilever
- Tracking force:
- Range: 1.7 - 2.1 g (mN)
- Recommended: 1.9 g (mN)
- Tracking angle: 22°
General Characteristics
- Entry-level Moving Coil (MC Pick it) cartridge
- Versatile and musical cartridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pick It MC-1 compatible with all turntables?
Thanks to its 5-gram weight and medium compliance, the Pick It MC-1 is compatible with most entry- and mid-level turntables. However, it is always recommended to check compatibility with your specific model, particularly in terms of tracking force and tonearm geometry.
Do I need a special phono preamp to use the Pick It MC-1?
Yes, like all MC cartridges, the Pick It MC-1 requires an MC-compatible phono preamp. Make sure your preamp has an MC input or sufficient gain settings to accommodate the cartridge’s low output voltage.
How can I maintain my Pick It MC-1 cartridge to optimize its lifespan?
To preserve your cartridge, regularly clean your vinyl records, use a stylus force gauge to check tracking force, and avoid rough handling. Gently clean the stylus with an appropriate brush after each use to extend its lifespan.
Can I replace just the stylus on the Pick It MC-1 when it wears out?
Unlike MM cartridges, MC cartridges like the Pick It MC-1 generally do not allow for stylus replacement alone. When the stylus wears out, the entire cartridge needs to be replaced.
Is the Pick It MC-1 suitable for all music genres?
Absolutely! The Pick It MC-1 is designed as a versatile cartridge capable of faithfully reproducing all music genres. Its extended frequency response and dynamics make it ideal for enjoying jazz, rock, classical music, or electronic tracks.
- Eco-contribution of €0.50 included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 9120007685831
