GRADO Prestige Gold 4 cartridge

The Prestige Series from American manufacturer Grado delivers the musicality and performance that define the brand’s signature sound. Built on decades of cartridge design expertise, it provides high-quality analog playback at an accessible price point.

Grado Prestige Gold 4: Technology

The Grado Prestige Gold 4 is based on Joseph Grado’s patented Moving Iron (MI) principle.

This Moving Iron technology ensures a stable and consistent signal, low moving mass, and long operational lifespan. The cartridge features a robust injection-molded body designed for durability and ease of use.

The Prestige Gold 4 is equipped with a bonded elliptical diamond stylus mounted on an aluminum cantilever. The elliptical profile ensures optimal groove contact and precise tracking, while the aluminum cantilever contributes to stable and well-balanced playback across a wide range of records.

The stylus is user-replaceable, simplifying maintenance and extending cartridge life. All styli in the Prestige Series are interchangeable, allowing upgrades across the range while maintaining consistent performance characteristics.

The internal circuitry is built with ultra-pure 5N OCC copper, selected for its conductivity and consistency. Each cartridge undergoes cryogenic treatment and internal damping to reduce unwanted resonances and preserve signal integrity.

Grado Prestige Gold 4: Sound Performance

The Grado Prestige Gold 4 offers a highly musical presentation, with a rich midrange and warm tonal character.

Compared to many modern, more analytical MM cartridges, it prioritizes fluidity and a dense, natural midrange. The treble is smooth and less incisive than competing designs, but also less transparent and less precise in absolute terms.

Overall, the Gold 4 delivers a coherent, balanced analog presentation with good dynamics and an engaging musical flow.

A true reference in its category.

Note: Grado MI cartridges may produce a slight hum (“Grado hum”) with certain turntables or motors, although this is not systematic. Before purchasing, it is recommended to verify compatibility with your turntable.