Grado Reference MASTER-2 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 2!

Grado Reference Master-2: body

From the outside, the difference with the former Master 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 Master-2: features

Grado designed a new generator based on the OTL principle. It uses 5 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 Master-2 cartridge has a Nude Elliptical profile. It is mounted to a brass cantilever.

The manufacturing and assembly processes use very tight tolerances.

Grado Reference Master-2: listening and review

With an output level of 4.8 mV, this Grado Reference Master-2 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 definition is also a lot better than what Grado usually delivers! The mids and treble are a lot more detailed and precise.

The soundstage has dramatically improved in terms of depth and the player placement is more precise. 

This Grado Reference Master-2 MM cartridge has excellent value for money. The sonic quality is closer to a Reference-2 than a Reference Sonata-2.

Recommended for audiophiles who love their analogue sound!