Reference SHO vs Songbird
The Songbird's output is 0.5 mV against the Reference SHO's 2.5 mV. Both share compliance (12 cu), tracking force (2.0 g), and channel separation (30 dB).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Sumiko Reference SHO is a high output moving coil phono cartridge known for its 2.5mV output voltage and a frequency response range of approximately 20Hz to 40kHz. It features a high output moving coil design with a stylus optimized for detailed analog sound reproduction. The cartridge is crafted with high-purity copper coils and a treated aluminum cantilever, ensuring precise tracking and sound clarity. It has a vertical tracking angle of 20°, a tracking force range of 1.8g to 2.2g, and recommended tracking force of 2.0g. The Reference SHO is part of Sumiko's Reference series, which is hand-crafted in Japan and designed to deliver high fidelity and dynamic performance for serious vinyl enthusiasts. It typically comes mounted on a quality headshell with wiring and stylus cover included.
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 Songbird's output is 0.5 mV against the Reference SHO's 2.5 mV. Both share compliance (12 cu), tracking force (2.0 g), and channel separation (30 dB).
The Irox Ultimate's output is 2.1 mV against the Reference SHO's 2.5 mV, its compliance 10 cu against 12 cu, its tracking force 2.3 g against 2.0 g, and its channel separation 26 dB against 30 dB.
The Zephyr MIMC Star ES's compliance is 10 cu against the Reference SHO's 12 cu, its output 0.4 mV against 2.5 mV, and its channel separation 28 dB against 30 dB. Both share tracking force (2.0 g).
The Starling's output is 0.5 mV against the Reference SHO's 2.5 mV and its channel separation 35 dB against 30 dB. Both share compliance (12 cu) and tracking force (2.0 g).
EMT JSD P 6.0
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