Starling implements a nude low-mass Microridge stylus, a boron cantilever and a carefully selected damper. We chose the Microridge stylus for its even-handed approach to detail retrieval, avoiding harsh and analytical tendencies. The boron cantilever is both low in mass and incredibly sturdy. It tediously conveys the finest movement of the stylus to the cross-coil. The coil is seated in a unique damper that provides excellent resonance control and enables sweeter high frequency extension. Our highly efficient magnetic circuit uses only the purest metals, thoughtfully positioned for minimal loss and distortion. The generator is secured to a PEEK mounting plate with the highest degree of mechanical stability. The mounting plate is then secured to our stiff alloy headblock, the assembly of which provides the perfect conduit through which uncontrolled resonance exits the cartridge to be dissipated harmlessly down the tonearm.

“…the Sumiko Starling played my  records with a dark, nanodetailed refinement that elucidated whatever sophistications the recordings and the music had to offer.” —Stereophile Recommended Component

“…it is very crisp and detailed but it has a poise, polish and panache that is alluringly addictive.” —Hi-Fi News Outstanding Product

“The Reference Starling slapped me in the face. While I know that Sumiko has been in the cartridge business forever, and obviously should know by now how to make a good cartridge, I hadn’t expected this level of performance” —SoundStage! Ultra Reviewer’s Choice

Our Reference Series Open-Body MCs

Our Reference Series open-architecture cartridges minimize the potential for coloration and distortion due to energy buildup that is sometimes propagated by the conventional cartridge body. Internal resonance is damped within the generator while remaining resonance travels up through the bonded mounting plate & headblock, then down the tonearm where it is dissipated harmlessly. The PEEK generator mounting plate provides the utmost stability and energy transfer while the stiff alloy headblock is the conduit through which that energy exits the cartridge. The generator itself minimizes distortion and losses through the implementation of pure metals and intelligent orientation of the same. The performance of this sophisticated generator is bolstered by our multi-faceted approach to resonance control, precipitating to clean, musical, and highly listenable sonics.

Trade In or Trade Up

As user-replaceable styli are not on an option for MC phono cartridges, remember that any of our MCs, functional or otherwise, can be returned to your dealer in a re-tip exchange — a discount on a new cartridge of equal or greater value — sparing you expense when your stylus heads south. *Note: The trade-in program is valid for US customers only.

Hand-Crafted in Japan

Each Sumiko phono cartridge is hand-assembled by the world-class cartridge makers at Excel Sound in Yokohama, Japan – a relationship we’ve proudly maintained for nearly forty years. We use only the finest materials that combine to deliver performance that has enlightened generations of listeners. Each design is thoroughly auditioned until it meets our stringent standards for sound. Production is then executed by expert craftsmen with a collective eye for precision & quality. The result is a family of cartridges that render emotion through tonally balanced, refined and fatigueless analog reproduction.