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You may return most items within 60 days of delivery. Returns made within 30 days qualify for a full refund, while returns from 31 to 60 days are eligible for store credit or an exchange. If the return is due to our error (incorrect or defective item), we’ll cover the return shipping costs.
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For full details, please review our return policy!
Reference Series open-body MC • Nude Shibata line-contact stylus • Low-impedance generator • 0.3mV output
The Sumiko Oriole Low Output Moving Coil Phono Cartridge is a Reference Series open-body design built around a high-efficiency, low-impedance generator and a nude Shibata line-contact stylus for exceptional detail retrieval, fast transient attack, and refined tonal balance. Sumiko describes Oriole as a meaningful upgrade that approaches the performance of Starling, while preserving a deeply musical, endlessly listenable character.
Because this is a low-output MC (0.3mV), plan on an MC-capable phono stage or step-up solution, and use loading to taste (Sumiko suggests >55Ω as a starting point).
Tracking — Set tracking force within the 1.8g–2.2g range and begin at the recommended 2.0g for a reliable baseline.
Loading — Start at >55Ω and fine-tune by ear for the best balance of dynamics, openness, and tonal density.
Compatibility — Compliance and VTA targets support straightforward alignment on many modern tonearms when correct geometry is applied.
No. Sumiko notes that MC styli are not user-replaceable; retip exchange is handled through participating dealers.
Use an MC-capable phono stage (or MM stage plus step-up device) with adequate gain for a 0.3mV cartridge output.
Sumiko states the cartridge is hand-assembled in Japan.
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