Sumiko Moonstone Moving Magnet Phono Cartridge

Sumiko Moonstone Moving Magnet Phono Cartridge

What You Need to Know

The Sweet Spot of Sumiko’s Oyster Series

The Sumiko Moonstone Moving Magnet Phono Cartridge delivers the most refined performance of Sumiko’s core Oyster Series trio. Handcrafted in Japan, the Moonstone builds on the popular Rainier and Olympia with a lower-mass motor assembly that pulls noticeably more music from your records.

If you want a serious step up in clarity, detail, and imaging without leaving the friendly world of moving magnets, the Moonstone is the one to hear.

Lowest Moving Mass in Its Class

The Moonstone pairs its elliptical diamond stylus with the lightest cantilever and magnet assembly of the Oyster trio. Less moving mass means the stylus can follow the groove more faithfully, responding instantly to the smallest modulations.

The result is quicker transients, finer low-level detail, and a more open, spacious presentation than you’d expect at this price.

Elliptical Stylus, Musical Balance

The 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical diamond stylus contacts more of the groove wall than a basic conical tip, retrieving more information with lower distortion. Combined with high-purity copper coils and a healthy 3.0mV output, the Moonstone delivers a smooth, engaging, and dynamic sound through any standard MM phono input.

User-Replaceable, Upgradeable Stylus

The Moonstone’s stylus replaces in seconds with no tools. It also shares its fitting with the rest of the Oyster Series—so you can upgrade later to the nude elliptical Wellfleet stylus or the flagship line-contact Amethyst stylus without changing cartridges.

Handcrafted in Japan

Every Sumiko Moonstone is individually assembled, adjusted, and tested by experienced cartridge craftsmen in Yokohama, Japan.

Building Your System

The Moonstone is an excellent match for quality turntables with medium-mass tonearms and any standard MM phono input.

It’s a superb choice for listeners upgrading from an entry-level cartridge who want audiophile performance with room to grow.

Features & Specifications

Elliptical Diamond Stylus
More groove contact than conical designs for greater detail and lower distortion.

Low-Mass Cantilever and Magnet Assembly
The lightest motor of the Oyster trio for faster, more accurate tracking.

High-Purity Copper Coil Generator
Healthy 3.0mV output with a smooth, dynamic, musical character.

User-Replaceable Stylus
Swap in seconds—or upgrade to Wellfleet or Amethyst styli later.

Precision Japanese Craftsmanship
Each cartridge is hand-built and individually tested.

Standard ½-Inch Mount
Threaded mounting holes make installation easy on most modern tonearms.

Specifications

•          Type: Moving Magnet (MM)

•          Stylus: Elliptical Diamond, 0.3 x 0.7 mil (user-replaceable)

•          Cantilever: Aluminum Pipe

•          Output: 3.0mV

•          Load Impedance: 47k ohms

•          Mounting: Standard ½-inch

•          Tracking Force: 2.0 grams (recommended)

•          Weight: 6.7 grams

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special phono preamp?
No. The Moonstone works with any standard moving magnet (MM) phono input.

How does the Moonstone compare to the Olympia and Rainier?
All three share the same body and stylus fitting. The Moonstone’s lighter cantilever and magnet give it the lowest moving mass of the trio, delivering the finest detail, imaging, and overall refinement.

Can I upgrade the Moonstone later?
Yes. The Oyster Series shares stylus fittings, so you can install the Wellfleet or flagship Amethyst replacement stylus whenever you’re ready.

Who is the Moonstone designed for?
It’s ideal for vinyl enthusiasts upgrading from an entry-level cartridge who want real audiophile performance with a built-in upgrade path.

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