My Sonic Lab Signature Platinum Moving Coil Cartridge

In creating the Eminent series, master cartridge designer Yoshio Matsudaira focused on natural reproduction by minimizing signal loss, internal distortion, and phase distortion. This cartridge features Matsudaira-san’s unique SH-μX magnetic core that has higher permeability and flux density than the core material typically used in MC cartridges. This allows for fewer coil windings than other moving coil cartridges, which minimizes distortion without lowering signal output levels. It is a high-efficiency approach that offers wide dynamic range, fast transient response, low distortion, and high signal-to-noise ratio.

The Signature Platinum is the ultimate expression of designer Yoshio Matsudaira’s goals. Pure transparency without distortion or coloration. Building upon the design of Signature Gold, the Platinum eliminates the final percentages of cartridge coloration by using a black ion-hardened titanium body that is completely free of any audible resonance. The cantilever is a boron pipe that is lighter, more rigid, and faster than aluminum versions. The result is pure transparency. After you hear this model, you’ll realize every other cartridge you’ve ever heard adds something that isn’t supposed to be there. Signature Platinum is Matsudaira’s masterpiece.

Features

• SH-μX core
• Black Ion Titanium body
• Boron cantilever

Specifications

Type: Semi line contact moving coil

Internal Impedance: 1.4 Ω

Output Voltage: 0.5 mV

Compliance: 10×10-6 cm/dyne

Recommended Tracking Force: 1.9-2.2 g

Recommended Loading: 100-800 Ω (ideal is around 400 Ω)

Weight: 13 g