Grado Reference3
Best high-end cartridge for audiophiles seeking rich, detailed analog sound.
This cartridge turns your turntable into a high-fidelity instrument by using a resonant Jarrah wood housing to deliver unmatched midrange warmth. You sacrifice the convenience of a plug-and-play setup for a hand-calibrated, boutique experience that prioritizes sonic texture over clinical precision.
$800.00
at
Elusive Disc
More Timbre options
Who it's for
- Listeners seeking a rich, fatigue-free sound for long sessions
- Audiophiles prioritizing intimate vocal and acoustic instrument realism
- Vinyl enthusiasts using standard phono stages without high-gain needs
Who should skip it
- Owners of unshielded turntables prone to electromagnetic interference
- Listeners who prefer analytical, hyper-detailed treble over warmth
- Users with low-mass tonearms requiring different compliance specifications
Performance breakdown
Sonic Clarity
Advanced cantilever design extracts remarkable detail from every vinyl groove.
Build Quality
Hand-assembled Jarrah wood housing provides superior resonance control and aesthetic appeal.
Frequency Range
Broad 10-60kHz response delivers deep bass and shimmering, extended high frequencies.
System Compatibility
Flexible load requirements ensure seamless integration with most high-end phono stages.
Channel Separation
Precise coil alignment creates an expansive and immersive stereo soundstage.
Tracking Precision
Lightweight construction maintains stable contact for accurate, distortion-free playback.
Key Specs
Type
Moving Iron
Body Material
Australian Jarrah Wood
Cantilever
Machined Boron / Diamond Tip
Output Voltage
1.0 mV
Inductance
6 mH
Resistance
70 ohms
Input Load
10k - 47k ohms
Cartridge Weight
10 grams
Tracking Force
1.6 - 1.9 grams
Compliance
20μm/mN
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