Pro-Ject Audio Systems Adds Three New Models to the "Pick it" Cartridge Line
pictured is the Pick it MC9
The three new Pick it models are the MC3, the MC9 and the Pick it Pro Balanced—a unique "True Balanced" MM design. Parts are sourced in Japan with the cartridges built in Europe. The MC9 uses a Pro-Ject specific "Special Elliptical" stylus and a cryogenically treated cantilever plus a "Telar 57 pure iron square cross coil around which is wound 6N linear crystal copper wire. Output is .35mV, with 1.8g optimal tracking. The body is black anodized aluminum with threaded mounting holes. Price is €1300 including VAT (dollar prices were not included in the press release).
Specs:
Cartridge principle: MC (Moving-Coil)
Output voltage at 1 kHz: 0,35 mV (3,54 cm/sec)
Channel separation at 1 kHz: 35 dB
Tracking ability at 315Hz: 70 μm
Frequency response: 20 - 20 000 Hz +/- 1dB
Stylus type: Special Elliptical
Stylus tip radius: 5x150 μm
Tracking force, range: 1,6 - 1,9 g (mN)
Tracking force, recommended: 1,8 g (mN)
Tracking angle: 20°
Recommended load resistance: 100-470 Ω
Break-in period: 30 hours
Cartridge weight: 9,6 g
The €599 MC3 has a slightly higher .4mV output and is fitted with a "Hyper-Spherical" (5x250 μm) stylus and cryo cantilever. Recommend tracking force is 2 grams.
The €199 (including VAT) Pick it Pro MM is also assembled in Europe and has the following specs:
Cartridge principle: MM (Moving-Magnet)
Output voltage at 1 kHz: 4 mV
Channel separation at 1 kHz: 22dB
Tracking ability at 315Hz: 70 μm
Frequency response: 20 - 20 000 Hz +/- 2dB
Stylus type: Elliptical
Stylus tip radius: r/R 8/18 μm
Tracking force, range: 1,8 - 2,2 g (mN)
Tracking force, recommended: 2,0 g (mN)
Tracking angle: 20°
Compliance: 12 μm/mN
Internal impedance, DC resistance: 750 Ω
Internal inductance: 450 mH
Recommended load resistance: 47 kΩ
Recommended load capacitance: 150-300pF
Cartridge weight: 7,2 g
If the prices in America are markedly different, this page will be updated.