I chose the ME+ with its upgraded generator system, elliptical stylus, and four-piece, cantilever. The ME+ is not, like so many mono cartridges out there, a stock stereo model bridged for mono, but a true mono design. "In our stereo cartridges," John Grado explains, "the coils are mounted in an X configuration, with each line of the X representing a signal, one for the left and one for the right channel. In our mono cartridge, the coils are mounted in an = configuration, so they pick up only the lateral signal and it looks as if the monaural Grado ME+ is perfect for the job. This $150 mono cartridge won't get me many props from trophy-turntable, invidious-comparison audiophiles, but until I can afford better . . .I'm gonna buy this overachieving Grado. I'm gonna put it on a SL1200 turntable, and I'm gonna have my very own daily-driver–type, dedicated mono system! You might just want to copy this plan - Stereophile
And yes, having a dedicated mono cartridge is definitely worth it if you are a fan of mono records. Focused, holistic, full-bodied mid-range. Overall very communicative and musical. Really makes music on mono records have more intention and focus. Also helps bring soundstage into more precise layers. A very good, budget way to get introduced to real mono records. LP Reveiw
Mono Phono 0.7mil Ellptical Stylus
There are many analog lovers with record collections that include mono albums. At Grado we strive to have products that will fit all the needs of the analog enthusiast. So now, Grado offers two new cartridge models in a mono version. The MC+ and the ME+ are mounted with an elliciptical diamond. The ME+ uses one of GRADO's upgraded generating systems. All wooden body cartridges are available in mono version. This will make your records quieter and enhance the musical pleasure of these recordings.
The Prestige model MC+ uses a three-piece OTL cantilever technology, oxygen free wire in the coils and a specially designed, high polished elliptical diamond mounted in a brass bushing.
Mono Phono:
Frequency Response: 10-50
Principal: MI
Input Load: 47K
Output at 1KHz 5CM/sec.: 5mV
Recommended Tracking Force: 1.5
Stylus Type: Eliptical
Inductance: 45mH
Resistance: 475
Stylus Replacement: User
Mounting: S/P
Weight: 5.5
Stylus type : 1.0 mil conical for pre 1967 mono recordings
Stylus type : 0.7 mil conical for most post 1967 mono recordings
Most post 1967 Mono recordings use a 0.7mil groove width & Modern 180/200g Audiophile Mono Microgroove Remasters
0.7mil is suitable for reissue monaural LP and a monaural LP of after 1960.
1.0mil is suitable for the monaural LP of a deep groove of the first press of the 1950s.
However, both styli can trace the monaural LP of all generations without a problem.
When you listen to the monaural LP of all generations, we recommend 0.7mil.
When you listen to a monaural LP of the first press of the 1950s mainly, we recommend 1.0mil
The Prestige series of cartridges are designed for high output and excellent stability under severe use. A considerable tip mass reduction results in a frequency response to 50 kHz and beyond and tracking forces from 1-2 grams. Acclaimed by experts as virtually the finest pickups in the world at their price.
Prestige models available in both 1/2" mount and P-mount. All styli in the Prestige series are user replaceable.
Prestige 2 Cartridges
The newest cartridge series from Grado Labs
Our classic phono cartridges have taken a major step forward with the Prestige Series 2. This is the third generation of our Prestige Series and a continuation of Grado’s entry level line of cartridges dating back to 1953. For sixty-four years the family has been dedicated to supporting vinyl playback with our high performance phono cartridges at affordable prices.
