Sumiko Songbird Phono Cartridge - High Output Moving Coil

Sumiko Songbird High Output Moving Coil Phono Cartridge

What You Need to Know

True Moving Coil Sound—No Special Preamp Required

The Sumiko Songbird High Output Moving Coil Phono Cartridge delivers the transparency, speed, and dimensionality that make moving coil cartridges so prized—while working perfectly with the standard moving magnet phono input you may already own. Handcrafted in Japan, the Songbird is your gateway into Sumiko’s acclaimed Reference Series.

If you’ve been curious about moving coil sound but haven’t wanted to invest in a dedicated MC phono stage, the Songbird was designed for you.

Open-Architecture Design Lets the Music Breathe

The Songbird features Sumiko’s signature open-body Reference Series architecture. Rather than enclosing the generator in a conventional plastic body that can store and reflect resonance, the Songbird’s generator is mounted to a rigid plate atop a precision-milled aluminum headblock.

This design drains unwanted vibrational energy directly into the tonearm, leaving the stylus free to read only what’s in the groove. The result is a cleaner, more open presentation with startling clarity and air.

Low-Mass Elliptical Stylus and Aluminum Cantilever

The Songbird uses a carefully profiled low-mass elliptical diamond stylus mounted to a reinforced aluminum pipe cantilever. This proven combination traces the groove accurately and consistently, delivering smooth, extended highs and articulate, well-defined bass.

A precisely tuned synthetic rubber suspension keeps the stylus firmly planted, so the Songbird tracks confidently even on dynamic, demanding passages.

High-Output Moving Coil Convenience

With 2.5mV of output, the Songbird plugs directly into any standard moving magnet phono input—no step-up transformer or dedicated MC stage needed. You get the refinement and low moving mass of a true moving coil design with the plug-and-play simplicity of a moving magnet.

Handcrafted in Japan

Every Sumiko Songbird is individually assembled, adjusted, and tested by experienced cartridge craftsmen in Yokohama, Japan. This careful attention to detail helps ensure every cartridge performs to Sumiko’s demanding standards.

Building Your System

The Songbird is an ideal upgrade for quality turntables with medium-mass tonearms and any phono preamp or receiver with a standard MM phono input.

It’s a natural step up for listeners moving beyond entry-level cartridges who want a taste of true high-end analog sound without changing anything else in their system.

Features & Specifications

Open-Architecture Reference Series Design
Eliminates body resonance for exceptional clarity, air, and detail.

Low-Mass Elliptical Diamond Stylus
Accurate groove tracing with smooth highs and articulate bass.

Reinforced Aluminum Cantilever
Lightweight and rigid for quick, precise transient response.

High-Output Moving Coil Generator
2.5mV output works with any standard MM phono input.

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

Standard ½-Inch Mount
Compatible with most modern tonearms, with threaded mounting holes for easy installation.

Specifications

•          Type: High Output Moving Coil (MC)

•          Stylus: Low-Mass Elliptical Diamond (0.3 x 0.7 mil)

•          Cantilever: Reinforced Aluminum Pipe

•          Output: 2.5mV

•          Load Impedance: 47k ohms (standard MM input)

•          Mounting: Standard ½-inch

•          Tracking Force: 2.0 grams (recommended)

•          Weight: 7.4 grams

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a moving coil phono preamp?
No. The Songbird’s 2.5mV high output is designed to work with any standard moving magnet (MM) phono input—that’s exactly what makes it special.

How does the Songbird compare to the Blue Point No. 3 High?
The Songbird steps up to Sumiko’s open-architecture Reference Series design, delivering greater transparency, a larger soundstage, and more refined detail than the Oyster Series Blue Point No. 3.

How does it compare to the Oriole and Starling?
The Oriole and Starling are low-output Reference Series designs that require a dedicated MC phono stage. They offer higher resolution through more advanced stylus profiles, while the Songbird prioritizes MM-input convenience.

Who is the Songbird designed for?
It’s ideal for vinyl enthusiasts who want authentic moving coil performance without adding a moving coil phono stage to their system.

Why Audio Advisor?

•          40+ Years of Expertise – Helping music lovers build better systems since 1981.

•          60-Day Money-Back Guarantee – Hear it in your own system with confidence.

•          Real Product Experts – Friendly advice before and after your purchase.

•          Free Shipping – On qualifying orders over $49.

•          Flexible Financing – Convenient payment options available.