I have finished my vinyl digitization project, and am selling my analog system including this Soundsmith MIMC Star cartridge. This cartridge played 1100 sides on a once retipped stylus - approximately 366.7 hours. ( I kept track of my recording progress in a spreadsheet. Sides counted, hours approximated based on 20 minute sides). All albums cleaned with VPI MW-1 Cyclone before play. Cleaned after every side with record research lab LP#9, and applied stylast #5 before each album. Rated 8 solely for the number hours, cartridge is perfect sonically and cosmetically.I loved the tracking ability of the MIMC Star, and clear transparent sound. I traded a Zephyr MM for this cartridge, and appreciated the extra resolution. I also loved the reasonable retipping fees. I paid $368 in 2018 for a retip in 2018. I used it with the Rogue Audio Ares phono preamp. Stylus: Selected Contact Line low mass Nude Stylus;
Radius of curvature: 6 x 17 μm;
Cantilever:Laser Drilled Sapphire;
Recommended tracking force: 1.8 to 2.2 grams;
Effective tip mass: 0.32 mg;
Compliance: 10 μm/mN (low compliance);
Frequency response: 15-45,000 Hz ± 2.0 dB;
Channel separation (stereo only): 1000 Hz >28 dB, 50-15,000 >25 dB;
Channel difference: <1.0 dB (Stereo), <0.5 dB (Dual Mono operation- w/optimal VTF setting);
Output Voltage: ≥0.4 mV;
DC Resistance (DCR): 10-11 Ω each channel;
Coil: 2.75 mH each channel;
Suggested Preamp Gain: 58-64 dB;
Soundsmith Recommends: MCP2 Variable Loading Preamp;
Cartridge weight: 10.25 grams;
Loading: ≥ 470 Ω I have additional seller feedback on ebay (masiebers) and audiogon (msiebers). At my asking price, I will include paypal fees and shipping.
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