Summary:
This is a very nice sounding cartridge. I love the way that it makes percussion and lower frequencies sound. It's warm and open sounding with good range and versatility: it works well on classical, jazz, good ol' rock and roll, you name it.

I am using the low output version. I was told that it sounds marginally better. And my Cary PH301 phono pre has both MC and MM gain stages so it can handle the low output. I actually switch back and forth from time to time. With quieter music like classical MC has too much gain... but if I want to really crank something, MM doesn't have quite enough punch. The low output is smack in the middle of my gain stages I guess :)

In any event. I recently ran this cartridge through a test disc and it was very gratifying. Its resonance falls right into spec (or at least did on my system) of about 10-11 Hz. It tracks best for me at 1.6 g although Grado suggests 1.5.

I have not compared the Reference to the Reference Platinum for example but would be curious to A/B them. What would actually be fun would be to A/B the Reference and the new Statement!

In any event at $1200 MSRP a buyer is making a serious decision here. I feel that the cartridge is well worth it. Cartridges, like many other accessories and analog components, are obscenely overpriced but I'm not here to discuss the MSRP vs. cost of production. This cartridge sounds wonderful and compared to others in or near its price range, it's an excellent way to go. This Grado can hold its own against high end cartrdiges costing more, and is a great choice for even the most exceptional turntables and arms (it's on my VPI TNT III w/JMW 12" arm!)

As a side note of little importance, I also think the wood design is very attractive (ended up matching my speakers... how quaint).

--Ev

Strengths:
Sounds marvelous, option of high or low output model, nice wood design, lower mass and higher output than MC (if high output model used)

Weaknesses:
Some people just plain don't like the Grado moving iron sound. I personally don't know why but it's a personal thing I suppose.

Similar Products Used:
Summiko Blue Point, Blue Point Special, other Grados