CARTRIDGE COMPARISON: Audio-Technica AT3600 vs Chuo Denshi MG-09D vs Chuo Denshi CZ800

We return again with the cartridge comparison with these budget record players!

The Audio-Technica AT3600 is a very popular entry-level moving magnet cartridge, and can be commonly found in many entry-level turntables (and USB turntables) that states that use a moving magnet cartridge. Could also be found on some vintage all-in-one systems from the 1980s-1990s.

The Chuo Denshi MG-09D, also sold as a Pfanstiehl MG-09D, is also very popular entry-level moving magnet cartridge that is also commonly rebadged as the Numark GrooveTool. These can be found in several USB turntables (if not using an AT3600), which includes the Crosley Keepsake. Could also be found on some vintage all-in-one systems from the 1980s-1990s

The Chuo Denshi CZ800, also sold as a Pfanstiehl P-188 or P-190, is a very popular entry-level ceramic cartridge that Skywin uses frequently with their budget turntables, the most popular being their portable turntables, such as the very popular Crosley Cruiser. Some vintage record player restorations also use these cartridges, and so did several vintage all-in-one systems from the 1980s-1990s.

Song is September by Earth, Wind & Fire, from the Greatest Hits Vol 1 LP.

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Equipment:

AT3600 - Kenwood P-100 turntable (metal platter)
CZ800 - Victrola ITVS‑200B 6-in-1 turntable (plastic platter)
MG-09D - Crosley Keepsake (plastic platter)

Will be acquiring the GrooveTool version of the MG-09D to use on one of my extra turntables to showcase how a metal platter can improve the sound quality significantly.

Also awaiting a CZ800 with a 1/2 mount, and a vintage amp that has the proper high impedance input for ceramic cartridges (and has tape-out, to record the audio from said amp).

Stay tuned for more in the series!