Grado - Timbre Series Reference 3

(Low Output 2 Channel Cartridge w/1.0mV)

Label:	Equipment
Product No.:	T REF3 LOW
Availability:	Special Order
Category:	Low Output Cartridges

$1,500.00

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Also available on:
• Hi Output Cartridges
High Output 2 Channel Cartridge w/4.8mV

Formerly the Statement and Reference Series, the new Timbre Series combines every next generation mid-range wooden phono cartridge into a striking and powerful family. Producing a warm, impactful, and accurate sound, this hand-built lineup delivers a signal with more control and accuracy than they ever have before.

Achieving fantastic accuracy and control, the Reference3 does everything the Master3 can do - but does it better thanks to specialized intricate processes while being crafted.

Technical Specifications

Body: Australian Jarrah Wood
Cantileaver: Machined Boron / Diamond Tip
Output:
High 4.0mV @5 CMV (45)
Low 1.0mV @5 CMV (45)
Inductance:
High Output 55mH
Low Output 6mH
Resistance:
High Output 660 ohms
Low Output 70 ohms

Input Load: 10k-47k ohms
Cartridge Weight: 10 grams
Tracking Force: 1.6-1.9 grams
Compliance 20μm/mN
Channel Separation: Average 30db - 10-30k Hz
Controlled Frequency Response: 10-60 KHz
Non-Sensative to Capacitive Load
Builds: High Output, Low Output, Mono

Customer Reviews

(5.00 Stars) 1 person(s) rated this product.

The best for less!

posted on 04/23/2025

5 Stars

I was a professional musician for many years and a vinyl loving audiophile for more than 40 years. This model Grado has completely blown me away. I’ve only ever heard a few cartridges, sometimes costing 10 times the price, that I thought sounded significantly better. Forget that it’s not moving coil. It’s just as quick and detailed but more balanced and natural sounding. It’s the only cartridge I have heard where the listener can feel, as well as hear, puffs of air coming from a singers lips. The only downside may be that very high sounds, like triangles, are a bit laid-back compared to moving coil. However, they also sound more beautiful and natural. I suspect it’s less distorted overall. Also, the higher output options help with dynamics, cost and overall character of sound, being less dependent upon multiple levels of amplification.

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