Irox Ultimate vs Sumiko Reference SHO
The Reference SHO's output is 2.5 mV against the Irox Ultimate's 2.1 mV, its compliance 12 cu against 10 cu, its tracking force 2.0 g against 2.3 g, and its channel separation 30 dB against 26 dB.
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Soundsmith Irox Ultimate is a high-output, fixed-coil / moving-iron phono cartridge designed for durable, rough-use environments while still targeting audiophile-level analog performance. Soundsmith describes it as an “unbreakable” cartridge suitable for libraries, schools, institutional use, and other situations where handling errors or misuse are a concern. It is made in the USA and carries a 2-year warranty to the original owner.
Phono cartridge specifications
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The Reference SHO's output is 2.5 mV against the Irox Ultimate's 2.1 mV, its compliance 12 cu against 10 cu, its tracking force 2.0 g against 2.3 g, and its channel separation 30 dB against 26 dB.
The Zephyr MIMC Star ES's output is 0.4 mV against the Irox Ultimate's 2.1 mV, its tracking force 2.0 g against 2.3 g, and its channel separation 28 dB against 26 dB. Both share compliance (10 cu).
The Irox Blue matches the Irox Ultimate on output (2.1 mV), compliance (10 cu), tracking force (2.3 g), and channel separation (26 dB).
The HSD 006's compliance is 12 cu against the Irox Ultimate's 10 cu, its output 1.1 mV against 2.1 mV, its tracking force 2.4 g against 2.3 g, and its cartridge type MC against HOMC.
EMT JSD P 6.0
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