Grado Reference SONATA-3 MM cartridge

After a number of years of good and faithful service, Grado's 'Wood' range has been discontinued and replaced! All 'Reference' models now feature the suffix 3!

Grado Reference Sonata-3: body

From the outside, the difference with the former Sonata version is obvious! The body is carved by hand from a beautiful block of Australian Eucalyptus wood.

It undergoes a process that hardens and stabilises it, thus reducing resonance.

This new variant is quite bulky and its dimensions (1.5 x 2 x 3 cm) also justify its weight of 10 g.

Grado Reference Sonata-3: features

Grado designed a new generator based on the OTL principle. It uses 4 OTL pieces, combined with ultra high-purity long crystal (UHPLC) copper coils.

The generator/stylus module of this series does not allow for stylus replacement like on an MC cartridge. It enables the development of a magnetic circuit designed in a single piece, allowing for a significant reduction of chassis resonance.

The stylus of this Reference Sonata-3 cartridge is cut to a Nude Elliptical profile. It is mounted to a brass cantilever.

The manufacturing and assembly processes use very tight tolerances.

Grado Reference Sonata-3: listening and review

With an output level to 4.8 mV, this Grado Sonata-3 is compatible with all MM phono inputs on the market. 

The dynamics, bass note placement and articulation are quite remarkable. The colouration is a lot less present than with the former versions. 

The mids are rich, very detailed and very authentic. The treble, which was somewhat lacking in the previous version, has improved in terms of subtlety and consistency.

The soundstage is quite expressive though it perfectly respects the players' placement!

This Grado Reference Sonata-3 MM cartridge is recommended for Grado fans and audiophiles who like the analogue sound!