A phono cartridge is a transducer that converts the vibrations of a phonograph record’s stylus into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then amplified by a phono amplifier and converted back into sound waves by a loudspeaker.
The resistance of a phono cartridge is the amount of electrical resistance that the cartridge presents to the phono amplifier. The resistance of a phono cartridge is typically measured in ohms.
There are two main types of phono cartridges: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges have a higher resistance than MC cartridges. The resistance of an MM cartridge is typically between 47,000 ohms and 600,000 ohms. The resistance of an MC cartridge is typically between 100 ohms and 1,000 ohms.
The resistance of a phono cartridge is important because it affects the way the phono amplifier amplifies the signal. A phono amplifier is designed to amplify a specific range of resistances. If the resistance of the cartridge is too high or too low, the phono amplifier may not be able to amplify the signal properly.
The correct resistance for a phono cartridge depends on the type of cartridge and the phono amplifier. The manufacturer’s instructions for the cartridge and phono amplifier will typically specify the correct resistance.
If you are not sure what the correct resistance is for your phono cartridge and phono amplifier, you can consult with a qualified audio technician.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about phono cartridge resistance:
- The resistance of a phono cartridge can affect the sound quality of the output signal. A higher resistance cartridge will produce a brighter sound, while a lower resistance cartridge will produce a darker sound.
- The resistance of a phono cartridge can also affect the tracking ability of the cartridge. A higher resistance cartridge will be more difficult to track, while a lower resistance cartridge will be easier to track.
- If you are having problems with the sound quality or tracking ability of your phono cartridge, you may need to adjust the resistance of the cartridge. This can be done by using a resistor in series with the cartridge.
