Grado Black 3Prestige 3 SeriesCartridge

Grado Black 3 - Prestige 3 Series Cartridge

The Grado Black 3 cartridge from the Prestige 3 Series delivers exceptional tonal balance, dynamic range, and realism for an immersive vinyl listening experience. Hand assembled in Brooklyn using advanced Optimized Transmission Line (OTL) technology, it ensures precise stereo imaging and minimal distortion.

Key Features

• Three-piece OTL cantilever with a Grado-specific diamond mounted on a brass bushing
• Hand assembled by experienced builders with over 25 years of expertise
• Optimized Transmission Line (OTL) technology reduces unwanted resonances and distortion
• Twin magnet system for optimal stereo channel balance and imaging
• Low effective moving mass for excellent frequency response across the full range
• Advanced coil winding techniques using ultra-high purity copper wire for channel unison
• Chassis damping technology to dissipate unwanted energy and resonant frequencies

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 10 - 55,000 Hz
• Principal: MI
• Channel Separation at 1 kHz: 30 dB
• Input Load: 47K Ω
• Output at 1 kHz 5 cm/sec: 5 mV
• Recommended Tracking Force: 1.5 g
• Stylus Type: E
• Inductance: 45 mH
• Resistance: 475 Ω
• Compliance CUs: 20
• Stylus Replacement: U
• Mounting: S/P
• Weight: 5.5 g

About the Black3 and Green3 Models

Both the Black3 and Green3 cartridges share the same OTL cantilever design. The Green3 models are hand-selected from Black3 production runs that meet higher test specifications, typically about 15% of production, ensuring even higher performance standards.

Grado’s OTL technology provides ideal signal transfer from the LP surface to the cartridge generator, rejecting unwanted resonances and lowering distortion. This preserves the fundamental and harmonic frequencies of the music while minimising noise from the motor system.

The Black3’s design results in quieter records, improved soundstage height, width, and depth, and greater detail than previously attainable. The twin magnet system optimises stereo channel balance, while the patented Flux-Bridger design achieves one of the lowest effective moving mass systems.

The chassis incorporates damping techniques developed from the Lineage Series, which de-stress the housing and dissipate unwanted energy and resonant frequencies, allowing the desired signal to travel freely.

Customer Review

"The Grado Prestige Green is a cartridge most people will find thoroughly enjoyable for nearly all kinds of music, especially if their system is very slightly laid back. At its price, it simply can't be beaten! If you have a moderately-priced turntable lurking in your closet, pull it out, get a Grado Prestige Green."
Thom Moon / $ensible Sound magazine