Sumiko Blackbird Low Output MC Cartridge - Pre-Loved - Calibrated for SL-1200G

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General:
The Sumiko Blackbird was one of the top MC cartridges in the Sumiko lineup when introduced. Although it has been discontinued for several years, it remains a sought-after model and is becoming increasingly difficult to find in good condition. MSRP when new on this cartridge was $1249.

The Blackbird low output is known for its clear, transparent sound with excellent detail and natural presentation. It offers strong tracking performance and works well with a wide range of music. Features include a boron cantilever and an elliptical diamond.

This cartridge has been mounted on a genuine Technics headshell and aligned for the Technics SL-1200G. For SL-1200G owners, it provides a convenient plug-and-play solution, making it easy to swap cartridges without the need for additional setup.

Included with the cartridge and headshell will also be its original box. This is a total value of a $1790 value. Cartridge ($1250), + 12-Step Calibration ($390), Technics OEM Headshell ($150).

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
The Stylus shows minimal wear. Overall condition is very good.

Brand Background:
For nearly 40 years, SUMIKO has provided the finest array of phono cartridges to discriminating analog enthusiasts around the world. The long list of iconic models produced by SUMIKO reads like a “who’s who” of analog audio’s illustrious past.

Ownership:
Single Owner

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and tested in our lab.

Included:
Unit and box

Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing

Original MSRP:
$1,249.00

Specs:
Physical and Tracking Specs
- Cartridge weight: 9.6 grams
- Tracking force range: 1.8 – 2.2 grams
- Recommended tracking force: 2.0 grams
- Mounting system: Standard 0.5-inch hole spacing
- Cantilever: Long-grain boron rod
- Stylus type: Low-mass elliptical / special grind
Audio and Electrical Specs
- Frequency response: 10Hz – 50,000Hz (High) / 12Hz – 50kHz (Low)
- Output voltage: 2.5mV (High-Output version) or 0.7mV (Low-Output version)
- Channel separation: 35dB @ 1kHz
- Channel balance: < 0.5dB @ 1kHz
- Dynamic compliance: 12 x 10⁻⁶ cm/dyn
- Load impedance: 47kΩ for High-Output; >100Ω recommended for Low-Output

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.