Cartridge Type / Generator
Cartridge type describes how the stylus movement from a record groove becomes an electrical audio signal.
Moving-magnet (MM) cartridges move a magnet beside fixed coils; moving-coil (MC) cartridges move coils within a fixed magnetic field. Other principles include moving iron, optical and strain gauge.
Cartridge Type / Generator — Cartridge
For magnetic cartridges, match the output voltage and recommended electrical load to the phono preamp’s gain and input settings. Gain is amplification: low-output MC usually needs more than MM. High-output MC can suit an MM input because its signal is stronger; check the manufacturer’s requirements rather than choosing by initials alone.
Optical and strain-gauge cartridges need their specified electronics, rather than an ordinary MM/MC input. “Mono” describes the recording format; “high output” describes signal level. Neither replaces the generator principle. The generator label alone does not establish sound quality.
Sources
- Cartridge-making dictionary (pages 55–57) — Audio-Technica
- High-output MC and phono-input compatibility — Ortofon
- Why optical cartridges need a dedicated equalizer — DS Audio
- How strain-gauge cartridges work — Soundsmith