Pro-Ject Audio has introduced a new budget-friendly MM cartridge named Pick It MM E. Its technical design features a neodymium magnet and a lightweight construction. The manufacturer claims that the Pick It MM E serves as an ideal entry-level option for vinyl enthusiasts who are also mindful of their budget.
Pro-Ject Audio Pick It MM E
The cartridge of a turntable is arguably the most crucial component in terms of sound quality, although the significance of other parts should not be overlooked. The quality of the audio reproduction is fundamentally influenced by the signal captured by the needle. Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges are the most prevalent type and are generally more affordable due to their simpler manufacturing process compared to Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. A notable benefit of MM cartridges is the ability to replace the stylus. Pro-Ject Audio aimed to create a cartridge that provides exceptional music reproduction while maintaining an affordable price point.
The Pick it MM E features a lightweight design that incorporates a miniature neodymium generator magnet. This reduced inertia leads to a notable enhancement in tracking precision. The conical diamond stylus provides a warm and smooth audio experience, ensuring high-quality sound reproduction with minimal background noise.
Constructed from resonance-optimized ABS, the unit weighs approximately 5.5 grams. Its highly damped casing effectively minimizes mechanical vibrations.
The frequency response ranges from 10 Hz to 20 kHz (+/- 2 dB), with an output level of 3.8 mV (3.54 cm/sec at 1 kHz). The recommended load resistance is the standard 47 kOhm.
