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Pearl MM Phono Cartridge
Classic Moving Magnet Phono Pickup
The classic Pearl phono cartridge has been dazzling listeners for decades. Physically compatible with most tonearms on the market and a perfect fit for any MM system, it’s a reminder that one doesn’t have to exhaust their budget to achieve next-level sound quality. Dynamic yet smooth and incredibly musical, it’s an evenly balanced cartridge with enticing highs, decisive mids & deep, well-rounded bass.
Our Classic Oysters
The series is comprised of our Oyster (MM), Black Pearl (MM), Pearl (MM), Blue Point No. 2 (HOMC) & Blue Point Special EVO III (H & LOMC) — each capable of delivering a degree of refinement you have yet to hear from your turntable system. The cartridges have established themselves over decades as high-value gems that dependably outperform listeners’ expectations for their dollar.
Hand-Crafted in Japan
Each Sumiko phono cartridge is crafted by hand in Yokohama, Japan — near the waters where our namesake Oysters dwell. We’ve selected by ear the finest materials that combine to deliver a performance that has enlightened generations of listeners. Each design is thoroughly auditioned until perfected. Production is then performed by world-class cartridge makers with a collective eye for precision & quality.
Dimitrios M.
Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2025
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Duki
Reviewed in Germany on January 16, 2025
Na veel meten en passen eindelijk afgestemd op mijn unipivot arm van mijn Nordmende opera DD draaitafel.Ooit ga ik proberen die te plaatsen op mijn Thorens TD160B met DECCA LONDON INTERNATIONAL nu nog met Denon 103 MC.
RC
Reviewed in the Netherlands on September 24, 2024
A cartridge with a wonderful allround performance. Takes a few days to run-in but then you get gorgeous, silky detail, excellent separation of instruments and a dynamic, deep bass.Complete satisfaction here.
Edward
Reviewed in the United States on July 11, 2024
Okay I waited way too long to review this cartridge. I've bought the sumiko pearl back in 2017 after reading Tammy Heffron's review and some other audio technica and shure cartridges. Initially I set up the cartridge just like all other cartridges and I didn't expect much of it except the treble was somewhat lacking so I put it aside and tinkered with audio technica cartridges (some cheaper and others more expense). But I finally came around to re-evaluate the sumiko pearl. After a very long break in period for me, the treble appeared and the depth of the bass (if you have accurate 3 way speaker) you can hear it. The special stylus tip (they went back to .3x.7 elliptical) really brings out depth and somewhat hides the crackles and hiss that most inferior cartridges accentuates. I can really listen to the music and appreciate my music system for doing its job. This cartridge is smooth, detailed, give dimension and depth; entry level world class sound for a little over a hundred dollars. Gotta love it.
Ken
Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2024
The Sumiko Pearl MM Cartridge has completely transformed my listening experience! From the first spin, I was blown away by the warmth, depth, and clarity it brings to my records. It’s truly a standout cartridge for anyone who loves vinyl.The soundstage is rich and dynamic, with detailed highs, a full midrange, and tight, punchy bass. Vocals come through beautifully, and subtle nuances in the music are captured with incredible precision. Whether I’m listening to classic rock, jazz, or orchestral pieces, the Pearl delivers a balanced and immersive sound every time.Installation was straightforward, and the cartridge aligned easily with my tonearm. The build quality is excellent, with a sleek design that adds a touch of elegance to my turntable setup. It tracks well, even on older or slightly worn records, without any distortion or sibilance.For the price, the Sumiko Pearl offers phenomenal value. It’s a step up from many entry-level cartridges and rivals others at a much higher price point. If you’re looking for an upgrade that brings out the best in your vinyl collection, the Sumiko Pearl is an absolute winner. Highly recommend it!
Client d'
Reviewed in France on August 9, 2023
Très belle cellule. Le son clair et chaleureux. Très bon rapport qualité/prix.Présenté dans une boîte en bois avec 2 vis, 2 écrous et 2 rondelles . Brosse et petit tournevis.
Jasmine Chittenden
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 29, 2023
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岡本 文雄
Reviewed in Japan on November 9, 2021
３万㎐以上の公称ですが、本当のようですね。ただ高域を伸ばすと極端にむつかしくなり、本機の場合は１ｓｔｖｎのtuttiに色がつくようにおもいました。ただ値段を考えると満足出来ます。５０枚ほどレコードをかけるとかなり馴染んできました。playerはnottinghamです。
Matt McCulloch
Reviewed in the United States on January 17, 2019
Getting back into vinyl 25 years later. Pulled out my 80s era HK T20 that had an AT P800 Cart that I had purchased new in the early 90s. The P800 was about $400 list at the time and is a P-mount with an adapter for conventional tonearm use. I’m guessing the cart had a couple hundred hours on it tops and was stored with the stylus protector on. This is my only comparison to the Pearl. The HK is plugged into a Marantz Model 1060 Integrated amp and Polk S10 (90’s era floor standing and NOT the current bookshelves) speakers.I only considered a new cart because I was having some right channel drop out. After ordering the Pearl, I noticed a frayed wire in the head shell and after replacing, the problem went away. I regretted the purchase and just figured I would try it and return it. Ha! NOPE.My favorite LP is a thoroughly abused copy of the original Dire Straits album from 1977. Despite its scratches and scuffs, this LP is sonically and dynamically stellar. Well paned soundstage, raw identifiable instrumentation, a Clapton/J. J. Cale-esq groove and Knofler’s soulful voice and guitar combo that rival Jerry and Neil. Wonderfully revealing LP that is perfect as a reference album.First thing I noticed was the lack of pops and scratches I was so used to as part of this abused LP. Almost completely gone! Sonically, the vocals and upper mids were far more clear, and all instruments were expanded into a huge and immersive soundstage. I am stunned as to the difference between this and a cartridge that cost 3x the amount in the 90s.I had no idea this would be such an upgrade from what I had. 3 albums in and this is without question the most enjoyable vinyl I have ever laid my ears on. What is this little guy going to sound like after a proper break-in? I am impressed. Great job Sumiko!!!
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