Glossary · Cartridges
Moving Magnet (MM)
A cartridge with a moving magnet and a replaceable stylus.
In a moving-magnet cartridge the cantilever moves a small magnet near fixed coils. MM cartridges output a healthy voltage any phono stage accepts, and the stylus usually pops off for replacement. They’re the default starting point and the easiest to live with.
Terms on the same stage
Cartridge
The transducer that turns groove wiggles into a signal.
Moving Coil (MC)
A low-output cartridge prized for detail; needs an MC stage.
Moving Iron (MI)
A hybrid generator — MM-like output, MC-like low mass.
Stylus Profile
The tip shape — conical, elliptical, microline, Shibata.
Cantilever
The thin arm carrying the stylus to the generator.
Compliance
How springy the cantilever suspension is.
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