Sumiko Songbird Lo low output MC cartridge

The Sumiko Songbird Lo low output MC cartridge fits between the Sumiko Blue Point n°3 Lo cartridge and the Sumiko Starling cartridge. It’s part of the manufacturer’s “REFERENCE” range from which it uses numerous elements and technologies.

This low output version allows to gain in subtlety while maintaining the brand’s legendary timbre quality and softness.

The Sumiko cartridges are handcrafted in Yokohama, Japan; a city and region famous for its oysters.

SUMIKO SONGBIRD LO: CHARACTERISTICS

The blue anodised aluminium chassis, associated with the armature’s stainless steel, gives a very precious aspect to the set. This open architecture reveals the belly of the “beast”!

The aluminium part is equipped with two threaded mounting holes allowing to insert two installation screws. We are pleased with this installation which has the advantage of being easier and providing better tightening torque than a nut. Connection to headshell’s cables is made via gold-plated pins.

Its high output level of 0.5 mV associated with its load impedance (between 100 and 500 ohms) makes it compatible with all MC phono preamplifiers on the market. The preamplifier just has to be worthy of this magnificent cartridge.

Its compliance, tracking force and weight make it compatible with 90% of all quality tonearms having an effective mass superior to 9 g.

SUMIKO SONGBIRD LO: TECHNOLOGY

The Sumiko Songbird Lo cartridge is equipped with an excellent elliptical stylus (0.3 x 0.7 mil) mounted on a treated aluminium cantilever. Coils are manufactured with high-purity enamelled copper wire.

Sumiko has used their research on these high-end models, and most especially on the chassis, the armature and the generator vibrations and resonance.

SUMIKO SONGBIRD LO: TESTING AND LISTENING

From the first few measures, and particularly when percussions come, we’re charmed by the Sumiko Songbird Lo’s dynamics.

The snare drum is powerful and the bass drum kicks with rigour and severity. The same characteristics are present on lower frequencies. The double bass sound is very demonstrative, detailed and powerful.

Vocals are present and very carnal. There are the warmth and substance specific to Sumiko cartridges. This provides a rather unusual realism to mid-range. There’s little surface noise, which allows excellent transparency and definition.

This phono cartridge also provides a remarkable soundstage with a very precise instrument placement.

The Sumiko Songbird Lo will bring happiness to dynamics and timbre enthusiasts. It also provides superior transparency and subtlety to the high output version. Its reproduction offers enhanced soul favouring musicality.

A favourite!