Baka makatulong ito sa gusto mag analog Phono FAQ from Van den Hul
1 Q: Why are there 2 different types of phono cartridges: Moving Magnet (M.M.) and Moving Coil (M.C.) ?
A: This has partly to do with the principle of signal generation and partly with the cost of production.
Theoretically it does not make a big difference whether you move the magnet and hold the coil or vice versa.The difference in sound by the way is on the plus for the Moving Coil systems, because with the M.C. principle the manner in which the magnetic field variation interacts with the coil is more correct. Also the mechanical stability of the cantilever and stylus is in most cases better. This produces better sonic results.Especially the channel separation is higher with M.C. cartridges. Also the mechanical resonance frequency is higher so intermodulation distortion is lower.
There is one disadvantage with M.C. systems: the output is lower, so you need an extra step-up device like a transformer or a typical M.C. amplifier.
2 Q: Which of the 2 phono systems, M.M. or M.C. has a longer expected lifespan ?
A: The construction of the M.M. is, related to the lower price, always somewhat more industrial. So expected lifetime is normally shorter.
Also by reason of the generally lower reproduction quality, the quality of the stylus is limited. So stylus wear is usually higher. This is in advantage of M.C. systems. The application of aluminum for the cantilever also limits the total lifespan. Despite this, with care a M.M. system can give you years of pleasure. And when you buy one, at the same time already
buy your spare replacement stylus unit. You never know what the manufacturer will do in the future.
3 Q: Which of the two, M.M. or M.C., will sound better ?
A: In practically al cases, the M.C. sounds better.Especially owing to the construction, the dynamics, the detail and the resolution are better. Also in the field of channel separation the M.C. systems score higher. So a higher delight for the ears.
4 Q: What parts of a M.M. are most critical ?
A: Always be careful with the aluminum cantilever. The little aluminum tube with its thin walls is weak and can be destroyed by a light mechanical pulse. Also give the stylus enough attention. Stylus wear happens as a result of the mechanical tracking process. And never solder your tiny tone arm leads tot the mounting pins: At the same time you desolder the internally connected coil wires or break the fixing in the rear panel due to exposure to heat. Coil systems of M.M. cartridges are made of copper wire with a diameter of around 20 micron (0.02 mm) or even less. A human hair is about 80 micron. Just to give you an idea.
5 Q: What parts of a M.C. cartridge are most critical ?
A: Again the stylus, the cantilever and the suspension. The stylus can have all kind of shapes. The mounting or fixing of the stylus on the cantilever can be damaged by the application of cleaning liquids contaminated with oil . This softens the epoxy glue so the tip will fall of within 6 - 12 months. Cleaning the cantilever with water can damage the aluminum. It causes corrosion when the pH factor is not around 7 (= neutral). When the cleaning liquid contains oil, the oil will creep along the cantilever and will finally reach the rubber suspension along the coil. This is the beginning of the end of the damping properties of the rubber suspension pad. So NEVER use any oil containing cleaning liquid .
Don’t forget: A clean record always sound better than a dirty one. So keep your records as clean as possible.
