Clearaudio Virtuoso V2 MM Phono Cartridge (McIntosh Branded)

General:
This Mcintosh x Clearaudio Virtuoso V2 Ebony MM cartridge is a high-value, high-performance MM (moving-magnet) Cartridge from Clearaudio. It would pair well to a number of turntables at any price point.

These McIntosh branded examples are sold exclusively on the McIntosh MT10 turntable so it's rather uncommon to have one available for sale standalone.

This particular cartridge is in brand new condition, never used and will come with its original tool kit, stylus protector and box.

Brand Background:
McIntosh Laboratory is an American manufacturer of handcrafted high-end audio equipment based in Binghamton, New York. The company was founded in 1949 by Frank McIntosh. The company designs and produces audio amplifiers, stereo tuners and other consumer electronics products.

Ownership:
Brand New

General Sound:
Neutral sound with little to no coloration

Cosmetic Condition:
New = Factory sealed and unopened. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and tested in our lab.

Included:
Exactly as pictured and described above.

Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing

Original MSRP:
$1,200.00

Specs:
Frequency response:
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Output:
3.6mV
Channel balance:
< 0.3 dB
Channel separation:
30 dB
Tracking force:
2.0g
Loading:
47k ohms
Cantilever:
Aluminum
Weight:
6 grams

Testing Process:
We start by doing a detailed physical inspection under light magnification to asses the cantilever condition, its position in the cartridge body, and the condition of the suspension.

We also inspect any coil wires and the output connections to make sure it hasn't been strained. We then perform a light cleaning with specialized agents and very carefully blow dry with compressed air.

Following that, we conduct a thorough examination using our Wild Heerbrugg professional microscope. From there we can asses the wear and quality of the stylus and determine how much use it has seen, and if there are any mechanical issues. We can also identify if it needs further cleaning or care.

We then move the cartridge to a digital microscope where we take photos of the cantilever and stylus for future reference.

Next we move to the test bench where we can check for continuity of each channel and resistance.

On certain cartridges (or if the technician feels necessary) we install the cartridge on a turntable and run several test records to ascertain tacking ability, distortion, and compliance.