Pro-Ject Pick It MC9
Overview
Pro-Ject, a renowned name in the high-fidelity audio industry, expands its range of phono cartridges with the Pick It MC9. This moving coil (MC) model is designed for audiophiles seeking precise and balanced sound reproduction. The cartridge combines finesse and dynamism, delivering an immersive listening experience faithful to the original recordings.
Cutting-Edge Technical Design
The Pick It MC9 stands out with its sophisticated technical design. It features a special elliptical diamond stylus, specifically developed by Pro-Ject to capture the finest groove details. The boron cantilever, cryogenically treated, ensures optimal signal transmission by realigning its crystalline structure. The transverse coil, made of pure Telar 57 iron and wound with 6N crystal copper, provides an output voltage of 0.35 mV, ideal for high-quality sound reproduction.
The cartridge body, crafted from black anodized aluminum, not only offers an elegant aesthetic but also ensures optimal rigidity, reducing unwanted resonances. Threaded mounting holes make installation easy on a wide variety of tonearms, while the included transparent stylus guard effectively protects the stylus tip.
Refined Sound Signature
The Pick It MC9 excels in delivering music with exceptional precision. Its soundstage is characterized by great openness, precise stereo imaging, and remarkable channel separation of 35 dB at 1 kHz. This cartridge particularly shines in reproducing dynamic music genres like jazz and classical, offering a sound that is both detailed and musical.
With an extended frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a tolerance of ±1 dB, it faithfully reproduces the entire audible spectrum. Transients are rendered with high precision, resulting in crisp note attacks and natural decays. The outcome is an immersive listening experience where each instrument finds its place in a well-defined three-dimensional sound space.
A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Pro-Ject has masterfully combined traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology in the design of the Pick It MC9. The use of high-quality Japanese components, paired with assembly and quality control conducted in Europe, reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence. This hybrid approach results in a product that merges the reliability of proven components with the innovation of modern manufacturing techniques.
The Pick It MC9 embodies Pro-Ject’s philosophy of offering high-quality audiophile products while remaining accessible to discerning enthusiasts. It represents a wise investment for music lovers looking to take their pursuit of sonic perfection to the next level.
Seamless Integration into Your System
To fully harness the potential of the Pick It MC9, pairing it with suitable equipment is essential. This cartridge performs best when mounted on a high-quality tonearm capable of highlighting its dynamic and precise characteristics. A high-quality MC phono preamplifier is also recommended to maximize the performance of this low-output cartridge.
The recommended tracking force of 1.8 g ensures an optimal balance between record preservation and sound performance. Using a quality turntable mat and ensuring precise anti-skating adjustments are advised to guarantee optimal groove tracking, especially during complex passages.
A Long-Term Investment for Audiophiles
The Pick It MC9 is a long-term investment for vinyl enthusiasts. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure exceptional durability. The special elliptical diamond stylus not only provides precise playback but also reduces wear, extending the cartridge’s lifespan and preserving your valuable vinyl collection.
Additionally, the Pick It MC9’s compatibility with a wide range of tonearms and turntables makes it a versatile choice, capable of evolving with your hi-fi system. Its upgrade potential is a significant advantage for audiophiles looking to gradually enhance their listening setup.
Technical Specifications
General Specifications
- Principle: Moving Coil (MC)
- Cartridge Weight: 9.6 g
- Dimensions, excluding connector pins and stylus (L × H × D): 17 × 12.5 × 21 mm
- Break-in Period: 30 hours
Audio Characteristics
- Output Voltage at 1 kHz: 0.35 mV (3.54 cm/s)
- Channel Separation at 1 kHz: 35 dB
- Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz ± 1 dB
- Recommended Load Impedance: 100 - 470 Ω
Mechanical Characteristics
- Dynamic Compliance: 12 µm/mN
- Tracking Ability at 315 Hz: 70 µm
- Stylus Type: Special Elliptical
- Stylus Radius: 5 × 150 µm
- Tracking Angle: 20°
Tracking Force
- Range: 1.6 - 1.9 g (16 - 19 mN)
- Recommended: 1.8 g (18 mN)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Pick It MC9 and a standard MM cartridge?
The Pick It MC9 is a moving coil (MC) cartridge, which generally offers better precision and superior dynamics compared to moving magnet (MM) cartridges. However, it requires a specific MC phono preamplifier due to its low output level.
Is the Pick It MC9 compatible with all turntables?
The Pick It MC9 is compatible with most turntables equipped with a standard tonearm. However, it is recommended to check compatibility with your specific equipment, particularly in terms of the tonearm’s effective mass and the phono preamplifier’s capacity.
What is the estimated lifespan of the Pick It MC9's stylus?
The stylus lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of the records played and usage conditions. Under normal conditions, the lifespan is estimated to be between 800 and 1,000 hours of playback. Regular maintenance and careful use can significantly extend this lifespan.
- Eco-contribution of €0.50 included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 9120129862813
