What is the difference between Moving Magnet and Moving Coil Cartridges?
Moving Coil cartridges are lighter, more precise, and output at a lower volume
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They differ mainly in construction - both have coils and magnets, however what varies is which part is fixed or moving on the cantilever (shown below in the diagram).
- Made with very thin copper wires, the moving coil design allows for a lighter effective tip and more precise tracking than a moving magnet option.
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The improved tracking allows for a wider range of frequencies; this accuracy and clarity is especially noticeable on the higher end of the spectrum.
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If you're considering a moving coil cartridge, you should know:
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Moving coil cartridges are generally more expensive and are intended for advanced users.
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Moving coil styluses can not be replaced; the whole cartridge needs to be replaced.
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Moving coil cartridges will need a special preamp with moving coil settings (to account for the cartridge's lower output).
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