Question regarding cartridge outputs...

to summarize the above, the output spec, in mV, is usually in reference to either 5cm/sec or 3.54cm/sec. The reference spec is often not listed so it can be important to research which one the company uses, as the actual output can vary by quite a bit, potentially making or breaking usability in a given system. To clarify Seasoned's last sentence, no cartridge has the same output forboth velocities.

Curious. Then the output of a cartridge DECREASES as the needle follows the groove spiraling into the center??? As the outside velocity is at least twice the inner velocity?
(my thought was the different velocity measures given referred to the cart at the outside edge @ 33 1/3 rpm, vs the middle of the record.)
Is the loudness difference between the outside edge, vs near the inner end, hearable?
(I have never noticed it myself... but then I was never looking for it either!)

Restock, yes you are correct in assuming that these are two different cartridges. Piedpiper hit the nail on the head as for why I was asking. I use an all tube phono stage w/out any SUT's and have been contemplating getting a new cartridge. I've always noticed that some list the output referenced to 3.54 and others to 5cm/sec. I knew that it would relate to a difference in gain but wasn't sure as to which would sound louder. In my case, it could mean the difference of hearing tube rush if having to turn the volume controls up too high to compensate for the lower output.

I found it interesting that a .6mV rated at 3.54cm/second would have an output of .85mV in a track with a groove velocity of 5cm/second. Could you share the formula in order for me to calculate various output comparisons like that?

Thanks to all for their input and helping me understand this more fully.

I currently am using a Benz MO.9 which is said to be .9mV @ 3.54cm/second. If I were to switch to the Ruby3H which is said to be .7mV @ 3.54cm/second.....how much difference in gain would I lose? Would it be very noticeable? Can it be expressed in db?

Thanks again.

Could you share the formula in order for me to calculate various output comparisons like that?

I just simply assumed a linear relation between the output and the velocity. That is 0.6mV at 3.54 translates to (0.6mV/3.54)*5 = 0.85mV.

I will make sure to check whether the linear assumption is good or whether my guess is wrong. In any case, cartridge 2 will play louder.