MC Ruby 2 vs L-04lo
The L-04lo's output is 0.4 mV against the MC Ruby 2's 0.3 mV and its tracking force 1.8 g against 1.9 g. Both share cartridge type (MC) and stylus type (Microridge).
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The Benz Micro MC Ruby 2 is a high‑end low‑output moving coil phono cartridge near the top of the Benz Micro range, noted for combining high resolution with a natural, musical presentation. It uses Benz's signature square ruby jewel coil plate as a non‑ferrous core, allowing a larger magnet and very low‑mass moving coils, which contributes to its fine detail retrieval and fast transient response. The generator is wound with high‑purity copper coils and mounted in a vented, machined Bruyere wood body, designed to control resonances while preserving tonal richness. Sonically it is typically described as neutral‑to‑warm, with a dense, colorful midrange, realistic string and vocal timbre, clean extended bass, and precise imaging rather than an overly analytical or romanticized character. The Ruby 2 weighs about 9.6 g, has an output around 0.3 mV, and features a solid boron cantilever with a line‑contact stylus optimized for tracking and resolution. Cartridges are supplied with mounting hardware, documentation, and factory packaging, and examples described as rebuilt or tested by Benz Micro can be found on the market in excellent operational condition.
Phono cartridge specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The L-04lo's output is 0.4 mV against the MC Ruby 2's 0.3 mV and its tracking force 1.8 g against 1.9 g. Both share cartridge type (MC) and stylus type (Microridge).
The MC Scheu SL's output is 0.4 mV against the MC Ruby 2's 0.3 mV and its tracking force 2.0 g against 1.9 g. Both share cartridge type (MC) and stylus type (Microridge).
The Airy 3S's tracking force is 2.0 g against the MC Ruby 2's 1.9 g. Both share output (0.3 mV), cartridge type (MC), and stylus type (Microridge).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The DV20X2L's tracking force is 1.8 g against the MC Ruby 2's 1.9 g. Both share output (0.3 mV), cartridge type (MC), and stylus type (Microridge).
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