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Sumiko Blackbird MC vs. Clearaudio Maestro Wood MM

Finally buying my first turntable after I left the vinyl format in the mid 1980s. Looks like I will be investing in the recently released Pro-Ject Xtension 10. Sumiko offers a package deal that includes the Blackbird MC cartridge. However, I have heard great reviews on the ClearAudio Maestro Wood MM. I understand the science between MC and MM. But has anyone listened to either OR both of these cartridges? I have a modest tube system that includes a Primaluna Dialogue II and Sonus Faber Cremona Monitor speakers. I will be using the dealer installed phono card in the Primaluna to start with and then move up to a separate phono stage in (a while). I listen to Pink Floyd, jazz, female vocals, Louis Armstrong, and Dead Can Dance. Any thoughts? Thank you. Cal.
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jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Cal, I currently have a sale pending on my Blackbird, but I haven't heard the Maestro Wood. I have read great things about the Maestro, but I was not very impressed with the Clearaudio Aurum Alpha that I owned, I know the AA sold for less than 40% of the price of the Maestro, so take that with a grain of salt.
I was very impressed with my time with the Blackbird though, very fine cartridge. Very detailed and airy with no edge or harshness at all. Maybe not the best rocking cartridge out there, as the bass was a tad on the light side, but other than that, it can hold it's own with more expensive cartridges.
wntrmute2's avatar
wntrmute2
188 posts
 
Never heard the Maestro but you won't go wrong with the BB. I really like mine. Doesn't set a foot down wrong . Excellent value even as the price has risen.
manitunc
795 posts
 
I have a Maestro, and while it is nice, it doesnt compare to a decent MC like my Lyra Delos. Just doesnt have the quick dynamics. smooth, yes. Punchy, no. My listening tastes are similar to yours, and I always prefer my MC cartridges.
As for the Blackbird, it seems to be an upgraded Sumiko EvoIII, which is a decent cartridge on its own, so I suspect the Blackbird would be a better choice.
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