Acoustic Signature Merlin Neo Silver with Ortofon MC X30

Here we offer a formidable pairing combining performance and musicality.

The Acoustic Signature Merlin Neo "30th Anniversary" turntable is paired with the excellent Ortofon MC X30 low-output MC cartridge.

This package delivers dynamic, transparent reproduction while giving the music body and presence. The low end is particularly powerful and articulate. The whole is highly realistic, neutral and musical!

The Merlin Neo is available in natural aluminum and black.

Find out more:
Acoustic Signature Merlin Neo 30th Anniversary turntable
and
Ortofon MC X30 MC cartridge

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Acoustic Signature Merlin Neo with Ortofon MC X30 Package

Which phono preamp does the Ortofon MC X30 cartridge in this package require?

The Ortofon MC X30 is a low-output moving coil cartridge: its output voltage is 0.4 mV at 1 kHz (5 cm/s). It therefore needs to be connected to a phono preamp with an MC input, with a recommended load resistance above 50 Ω. For this pairing, we particularly recommend the Aurorasound Vida Prima or the Gold Note PH-5.2 phono preamp.

Does the package arrive ready to play?

Yes. Like every turntable we ship, whether sold on its own or as part of a package, the Merlin Neo is assembled, aligned and tested in our workshop before dispatch. The Ortofon MC X30 is fitted to the 9-inch TA-500 tonearm and adjusted, with a recommended tracking force of 2.0 g.

What kind of sound does the Merlin Neo and Ortofon MC X30 combination deliver?

The system offers dynamic, transparent reproduction that gives the music body and presence. The low end is particularly powerful and articulate, for a highly realistic, neutral and musical result. Part of the Ortofon MC X range, the cartridge combines a Nude Fine Line stylus, an aluminum cantilever and four coils wound with high-purity silver wire.

What exactly is included in this package?

It brings together the Merlin Neo turntable with its 9-inch TA-500 tonearm and separate motor, the Audioquest Golden Gate phono cable, the Platter Mat Carbon platter mat and the Ortofon MC X30 cartridge. The turntable is available in natural aluminum or black. To complete the setup, a record clamp such as the Acoustic Signature Load LP Clamp is a natural addition to the platter.