In the world of high-fidelity audio, few components are as crucial as the phono cartridge. Today, we're diving deep into the pro-Ject Pick It Pro Balanced Moving Magnet Cartridge review, a product that's making waves in the audiophile community. This innovative cartridge from pro-Ject promises to deliver a new level of audio performance, and we're here to unpack its features, sound quality, and overall value.

Unveiling the pro-Ject Pick It Pro Balanced

The pro-Ject Pick It Pro Balanced is a true game-changer in the world of Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges. As the first of its kind, it offers a "True Balanced" signal transmission, a feature previously unavailable in standard MM cartridges. This breakthrough allows for a symmetrical connection, ensuring perfect channel balance and elevating the overall listening experience.

European Craftsmanship Meets Audiophile Precision

One of the standout features of the Pick It Pro Balanced is its European pedigree. Pro-Ject, known for their commitment to quality and value, has partnered with the renowned cartridge manufacturer Ortofon to bring this exceptional product to life. The result is a cartridge that embodies the best of both worlds: Pro-Ject's innovative design philosophy and Ortofon's unparalleled manufacturing expertise.

The Balanced Advantage

The true strength of the Pick It Pro Balanced lies in its balanced connection capability. This feature is a game-changer for audiophiles seeking the utmost in noise reduction and signal integrity. By effectively eliminating picked-up noise and interferences, the balanced connection ensures that you hear nothing but pure, unadulterated music.

For those looking to maximise the potential of this cartridge, Pro-Ject's "True Balanced" cable range offers the perfect companion. These cables are specifically designed to connect your turntable to compatible phono stages like the Phono Box S3 B or Phono Box DS3 B, creating a fully balanced signal path from cartridge to amplifier.

Technical Prowess

The Pick It Pro Balanced is not just about innovative features; it's also a technical powerhouse. With an output voltage of 4 mV at 1 kHz and a channel separation of 22 dB, this cartridge delivers a robust and detailed sound stage. The elliptical stylus, with its precisely engineered tip radius of r/R 8/18 μm, ensures accurate tracking and retrieval of even the finest groove details.

The cartridge's frequency response of 20 - 20,000 Hz (+/- 2dB) covers the entire audible spectrum with remarkable accuracy, promising a balanced and natural sound reproduction. The recommended tracking force of 2.0 g (mN) strikes the perfect balance between groove contact and record preservation.

Sonic Performance

In listening tests, the Pick It Pro Balanced truly shines. Its lively and robust character brings recordings to life with a high dynamic range that captures both the subtlest nuances and the most dramatic crescendos. The balanced connection works wonders in reducing background noise, resulting in a blacker background that allows the music to emerge with startling clarity.

Bass notes are tight and well-defined, mids are rich and detailed, and highs sparkle without ever becoming harsh. The cartridge's ability to render a wide and deep soundstage is particularly impressive, placing instruments and vocalists in their proper spatial positions with pinpoint accuracy.

Who Is It For?

The pro-Ject Pick It Pro Balanced is an ideal choice for serious vinyl enthusiasts looking to take their analog setup to the next level. It's particularly well-suited for those who:

• Own a Pro-Ject turntable or any high-quality deck capable of accommodating a balanced cartridge
• Are interested in exploring the benefits of balanced signal transmission in their vinyl playback chain
• Appreciate European craftsmanship and the legacy of brands like Pro-Ject and Ortofon
• Seek a cartridge that offers excellent value for money without compromising on sound quality

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• First-of-its-kind balanced MM cartridge design
• Exceptional noise reduction capabilities
• High-quality European manufacturing
• Excellent dynamic range and soundstage reproduction
• Compatible with Pro-Ject's "True Balanced" cable range
• Versatile tracking force range for optimal setup

Cons:

• Requires compatible balanced phono stage for full potential
• May be overkill for casual listeners or budget setups

The Verdict: A New Benchmark in MM Cartridge Design

The pro-Ject Pick It Pro Balanced Moving Magnet Cartridge represents a significant leap forward in vinyl playback technology. By bringing balanced signal transmission to the MM cartridge world, Pro-Ject has created a product that offers the best of both worlds: the affordability and ease of use typical of MM designs, combined with the noise-rejection capabilities usually associated with more expensive Moving Coil (MC) cartridges.

For vinyl enthusiasts looking to extract every last detail from their records while enjoying a quieter, more immersive listening experience, the Pick It Pro Balanced is an easy recommendation. Its combination of innovative design, superior craftsmanship, and excellent sound quality make it a standout product in its price range.

If you're considering upgrading your cartridge or building a new vinyl setup, we highly recommend giving the pro-Ject Pick It Pro Balanced a listen. Our team at The Audio Tailor would be delighted to discuss how this cartridge could fit into your system and enhance your vinyl listening experience. Don't hesitate to give us a call or drop by our Brisbane store for a chat – we're always excited to share our passion for great audio with fellow enthusiasts!

Remember, the journey to audio nirvana is a personal one, and finding the right components is crucial. Why not reach out to our expert team today and let us help you tailor your perfect audio solution?