
( Brand: Supex ), ( Model: SD-901 MK-IV ), ( Part Type: Cartridge Coil ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: Japan )
The SD-901 Super Mk-IV Moving Coil High Cartridge is a premium audiophile-grade product designed for discerning vinyl enthusiasts who demand exceptional sound quality. This high-end cartridge, manufactured by the renowned SoundSmith company, is the fourth iteration of the SD-901 series, showcasing refinements that deliver even more detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
The SD-901 Super Mk-IV features a hand-built, high-output moving coil cartridge with a single-crystal diamond stylus, providing remarkable accuracy and tracking ability. The diamond is set at a precise 20-degree angle, ensuring optimal contact with the vinyl groove while minimizing distortion. The cartridge's narrow-ellipsoid design further enhances its tracking capability, allowing it to excel in the reproduction of even the most complex musical compositions.
The SD-901 Super Mk-IV houses a 0.3mV output moving coil system, which is exceptionally low but delivers a wide frequency response range of 2 Hz to 50 kHz. This ensures that the cartridge captures the full spectrum of audio frequencies, from the deepest bass notes to the highest treble, with remarkable clarity and precision.
The cartridge's body is crafted from a proprietary aluminum alloy, providing an ideal balance of rigidity and damping. This ensures that the cartridge remains stable and vibration-free, even during the most dynamic passages of music. The SD-901 Super Mk-IV also features a low-mass, high-speed tonearm cable, further minimizing unwanted vibrations and ensuring the purest possible signal transfer.
In terms of installation, the SD-901 Super Mk-IV requires a high-quality moving coil phono preamplifier with a recommended input impedance of 100 ohms or higher. The cartridge is factory-aligned and includes a range of mounting hardware, making installation a straightforward process for those with the necessary tools and experience.
In conclusion, the SD-901 Super Mk-IV Moving Coil High Cartridge is a truly exceptional product that delivers unparalleled sound quality for vinyl enthusiasts. Its hand-built construction, premium materials, and advanced design features make it an ideal choice for those seeking the very best in audio performance. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just starting your vinyl journey, the SD-901 Super Mk-IV is sure to provide countless hours of listening pleasure.
The SD-901 Super MK-IV Moving Coil High Output Phono Cartridge is a high-end audio component, and like any product, it has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:1. Superior Sound Quality: The SD-901 is known for its detailed and accurate sound reproduction. It excels in the midrange and treble frequencies, providing a more natural and musical sound compared to many other cartridges.
2. High Output: With a higher output than typical moving coil cartridges, it requires less gain from your phono preamp, making it more compatible with a wider range of preamps.
3. Low Mass: The lightweight design helps reduce tracking distortion, providing better performance on lower mass tonearms.
4. Long Lasting: Moving coil cartridges, when properly cared for, can last for thousands of hours, making them a long-term investment.
Cons:1. High Price: The SD-901 is a high-end product and comes with a correspondingly high price tag. It may not be within everyone's budget.
2. Requires Careful Setup: To get the best performance out of the SD-901, it requires careful setup, including accurate tracking force and alignment.
3. Sensitive to System Matching: Due to its high-end nature, the SD-901 is sensitive to system matching. A subpar phono preamp or turntable may not fully bring out its potential.
4. Break-in Period: Like many moving coil cartridges, the SD-901 requires a break-in period to achieve its full sound quality.
Conclusion:The SD-901 Super MK-IV Moving Coil High Output Phono Cartridge offers exceptional sound quality, especially in the midrange and treble frequencies. However, its high price, need for careful setup, and system sensitivity may make it a challenging choice for some. If you are a serious audiophile with the budget and equipment to support it, and you value detailed, natural sound reproduction, the SD-901 could be an excellent addition to your system. But for casual listeners or those on a tighter budget, there may be more cost-effective options available.
I have the original packing with all hardware. I own this as new from years ago, it is one of my collections and played at most 10 albums, 20 hours top.
5 grams to 2.