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Sumiko Pearl Phono Cartridge
$174.00
Product Details
Sumiko Pearl Phono Cartridge — Moving Magnet Cartridge
Available at Vinyl Sound, Toronto's dedicated hi-fi and vinyl audio retailer, the Sumiko Pearl is a handcrafted moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge that delivers genuinely audiophile-grade analog sound without a premium price tag. Part of Sumiko's legendary Oyster Series — refined over 40+ years and trusted by vinyl enthusiasts worldwide — the Pearl is a compelling first upgrade for any turntable fitted with a standard 1/2" mount tonearm.
Why the Sumiko Pearl stands out
The Pearl sits at the top of Sumiko's entry-level Oyster range, stepping up from the Black Pearl with a finer 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus on an aluminum alloy cantilever. That smaller contact radius means sharper groove tracing, elevated detail retrieval, greater stereo imaging, and an extended frequency response of 12 Hz–30 kHz. The result is a balanced, musical sound — enticing highs, decisive mids, and deep well-rounded bass — that consistently outperforms expectations at its price point.
Key features
- Elliptical diamond stylus — 0.3 x 0.7 mil geometry for precise groove tracking and excellent stereo separation
- High-purity copper coils — 4 mV output at 1 kHz, ideal for any standard MM phono stage
- Aluminum alloy cantilever — lightweight and rigid for accurate transient response
- Universal 1/2" mount compatibility — fits Pro-Ject, Technics, Rega, Audio-Technica, Denon, and most standard tonearms
- Replaceable stylus — Pearl RS replacement stylus available for easy, cost-effective maintenance
- Handmade in Yokohama, Japan — individually auditioned before release
- Wide frequency response — 12 Hz – 30 kHz captures both deep bass and the finest high-frequency details
- Recommended tracking force 2.0g — gentle on your vinyl collection
Technical specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Moving Magnet (MM) |
| Stylus | 0.3 x 0.7 mil Elliptical |
| Cantilever | Aluminum Alloy |
| Coils | High-Purity Copper |
| Output Voltage | 4 mV @ 1 kHz |
| Frequency Response | 12 Hz – 30 kHz |
| Internal Impedance | 1,130 Ω |
| Load Impedance | 47 kΩ |
| Channel Separation | 30 dB @ 1 kHz |
| Channel Balance | 0.5 dB @ 1 kHz |
| Capacitance | 100 pF – 200 pF |
| Compliance | 12×10⁻⁶ cm/dyn @ 100 Hz |
| Vertical Tracking Angle | 25° |
| Tracking Force Range | 1.5 g – 2.0 g |
| Recommended Tracking Force | 2.0 g |
| Mass & Dimensions | 6.0 g — 11.6 × 20.26 × 27.24 mm (W×H×D) |
| Replacement Stylus | Pearl RS |
| Mount Type | Standard 1/2" |
| Origin | Handmade in Yokohama, Japan |
Part of the classic Sumiko Oyster Series
The Oyster Series is Sumiko's most enduring product family, spanning five models from entry to high-output moving coil: Oyster (MM), Black Pearl (MM), Pearl (MM), Blue Point No. 2 (HOMC), and Blue Point Special EVO III (H & LOMC). Each model is voiced to faithfully reproduce what's in the groove — honest, engaging, and true-to-life analog audio. The Pearl is the natural first step into serious phono performance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sumiko Pearl phono cartridge?
The Sumiko Pearl is a moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge with a 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus, aluminum alloy cantilever, and high-purity copper coils. It is part of Sumiko's Oyster Series and is handmade in Yokohama, Japan. It outputs 4 mV at 1 kHz and is compatible with any standard MM phono stage.
Is the Sumiko Pearl compatible with my turntable?
Yes — the Sumiko Pearl fits any turntable with a standard 1/2" mount headshell, including models from Pro-Ject, Technics, Rega, Audio-Technica LP120, Denon, Marantz, and many others. It is not compatible with P-mount (T4P) style tonearms.
How does the Sumiko Pearl compare to the Black Pearl?
The Pearl upgrades the Black Pearl with a finer 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus versus the Black Pearl's spherical tip. This improves detail retrieval, high-frequency extension, and stereo imaging. Both use a standard 1/2" mount and work with MM phono stages, but the Pearl is the higher-performing option.
What phono preamp do I need for the Sumiko Pearl?
The Sumiko Pearl requires a standard moving magnet (MM) phono preamp or phono stage set to MM input. It has a 4 mV output, 1,130 Ω internal impedance, and a recommended load impedance of 47 kΩ — the standard setting found on virtually all MM phono stages and receivers with a phono input.
What is the recommended tracking force for the Sumiko Pearl?
Sumiko recommends a tracking force of 2.0 g for the Pearl, with an acceptable range of 1.5 g to 2.0 g. Setting the tracking force correctly protects your records and ensures optimal sound quality and channel balance.
Can I replace the stylus on the Sumiko Pearl?
Yes. The Sumiko Pearl uses the Pearl RS replacement stylus, which is user-replaceable without tools. This means you can restore performance after extended use without replacing the entire cartridge body.
Where can I buy the Sumiko Pearl in Toronto, Canada?
The Sumiko Pearl phono cartridge is available at Vinyl Sound, located in the Toronto, Canada area (Richmond Hill, ON). You can shop online at vinylsound.ca or visit the store for expert advice on cartridge setup and compatibility.
How long does a Sumiko Pearl stylus last?
With proper setup and care, a well-aligned phono cartridge stylus typically lasts around 1,000 hours of play. Regularly cleaning your stylus and records and setting the correct tracking force will help maximize stylus life and protect your vinyl collection.
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