Gold Note Da Vinci Phono Cartridge
1 600,00 €
The Gold Note Da Vinci is a low-output MC phono cartridge designed for a vinyl system with an MC phono stage. A 220 Ω load impedance is recommended for its 0.4 mV signal. The Micro Elliptical stylus profile requires careful alignment to the turntable’s geometry. Its 10 g Duralumin 7000 body must be balanced using the tonearm counterweight, with the tracking force set to 2 g.
The Gold Note Da Vinci cartridge is a low-output moving-coil (MC) phono cartridge for vinyl playback systems. Its output level is 0.4 mV, so it requires a phono stage capable of accepting a low-output MC signal. The model features a Micro Elliptical stylus profile and an aluminium cantilever.
The recommended 220 Ω load impedance provides a clear starting point when configuring the phono stage. When choosing a phono stage, consider both the 0.4 mV output level and whether the unit allows the recommended 220 Ω load impedance to be selected.
Construction and compatibility
The body is made from Duralumin 7000, and the complete cartridge weighs 10 g. This weight must be considered in relation to the adjustment range of the tonearm and counterweight. The counterweight must allow the arm to be balanced and the required tracking force to be set correctly.
The Micro Elliptical stylus profile requires careful geometric alignment. Incorrect offset angle or overhang changes how the stylus sits in the record groove. For this reason, installation should be carried out using an alignment protractor suitable for the specific turntable.
Connecting it to the audio system
A low-output MC cartridge produces a weaker signal than a typical MM cartridge. It must be connected to an MC input or a separate MC phono stage. An input designed only for MM operation will not provide the signal gain required by this model.
Set the initial load according to the recommended value. If the phono stage offers a choice of fixed settings, use the closest suitable option. The cartridge’s 4 Ω internal impedance is not a loudspeaker load for an amplifier. It describes the electrical matching between the phono cartridge and the phono stage.
Installation and initial setup
First, attach the cartridge to the tonearm headshell, but do not fully tighten the mounting screws. Set the stylus overhang and cartridge offset angle according to the turntable’s geometry. Once alignment is complete, tighten the screws evenly without changing the established position.
Balance the tonearm and set the tracking force to 2 g. For greater accuracy, use a stylus force gauge intended for phono cartridges. Check the alignment again after adjusting the tracking force, as the cartridge may shift slightly during installation.
Adjust the tonearm height so that the arm is close to parallel with the record surface during playback. If the turntable allows anti-skating adjustment, begin with a value close to the tracking force. Complete the final adjustment in accordance with the turntable instructions and check for even operation across both channels.
Turntable placement and care
Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from vibrations transmitted by the loudspeakers. Check that the turntable is level before adjusting the cartridge. A tilted support can affect tonearm balance and anti-skating performance.
Keeping both the stylus and records clean helps maintain proper contact with the groove. Clean the stylus with a dedicated stylus brush, moving in the same direction as normal groove playback. Do not press on the aluminium cantilever or touch it with your fingers.
Technical specifications
| Type | Low-output moving-coil (MC) phono cartridge |
|---|---|
| Output level | 0.4 mV |
| Frequency range | 10 Hz-35 kHz |
| Internal impedance | 4 Ω |
| Recommended load impedance | 220 Ω |
| Compliance | 12 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne |
| Channel separation | More than 30 dB |
| Recommended tracking force | 2 g |
| Cantilever | Aluminium |
| Stylus profile | Micro Elliptical |
| Weight | 10 g |
| Body material | Duralumin 7000 |
FAQ
Can the cartridge be connected to an MM input?
Not directly. This low-output MC model requires an MC mode or a separate MC phono stage.
What should be checked before installation?
The tonearm and counterweight must be capable of balancing a 10 g cartridge. You will also need an alignment protractor suitable for the turntable.
How should the tracking force be set?
Balance the tonearm first, then set the specified force. Check the setting with a stylus force gauge designed for phono cartridges.
Why is accurate stylus alignment important?
The stylus profile must be correctly oriented in relation to the record groove. This is achieved by adjusting the overhang and the cartridge’s offset angle.
Where is the best place for a turntable fitted with this cartridge?
Choose a stable, level support that is affected as little as possible by loudspeaker vibrations. Check that it is level before balancing the tonearm.
