Gold Note Machiavelli MK II - Dreamedia AV

Vendor: Gold Note

Gold Note Machiavelli MK II

High Output Moving Coil Cartridge with Dynamic Sound

$3,599.00; $3,599.00
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Gold Note Machiavelli MK II

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Unveiling the Gold Note Machiavelli MK II: A Masterpiece of Sonic Artistry

For the audiophile whose heart beats to the rhythm of vinyl, the Gold Note Machiavelli MK II is not merely a component; it's a pivotal instrument in the symphony of home audio. As you stand at the precipice of auditory excellence, the Machiavelli MK II invites you to a world where every note is a brushstroke on an acoustic canvas.

Craftsmanship That Speaks Volumes

The Machiavelli MK II is a testament to the Italian dedication to beauty and precision. Encapsulated in a sleek duraluminium 7050 alloy body, the cartridge is engineered to perfection, exuding an aura of sophistication with its black body and opulent gold logo. This isn't just a cartridge; it's an objet d'art designed to elevate your turntable and listening space.

Exquisite Sonic Purity

The Gold Note Machiavelli MK II is more than a vehicle for music; it's the bridge between the tangible grooves of your vinyl and the intangible essence of sound. With a frequency response ranging from 10Hz to 40kHz, this high-output moving coil cartridge promises a sonic journey that spans the breadth of human hearing and beyond:

Resplendent Detail: The Line Contact diamond stylus, developed in collaboration with Ogura, ensures that every subtle nuance of your music is revealed. The 5x20um diamond size is crafted for precision, allowing for a deep dive into the grooves of your records.
Dynamic and Warm: Experience a sound that is as dynamic as it is warm. The Machiavelli MK II delivers a tonal balance that brings forth the vibrancy of live performances while maintaining the intimate warmth that vinyl enthusiasts cherish.
Full and Punchy: Whether you're indulging in the soft croon of a jazz ensemble or the electrifying riffs of a rock band, the Machiavelli MK II offers a full-bodied and punchy soundstage, bringing every genre to life.

Effortless Harmony With Your System

Compatibility concerns can be a deal-breaker for many, but the Machiavelli MK II dispels any such worries. It's designed to effortlessly integrate with your existing setup:

MM Phono Input Ready: No need to invest in an additional phono stage. The Machiavelli MK II is compatible with MM phono inputs, ensuring seamless integration with a wide array of systems.
Optimized Electrical System: With an internal impedance of 30 ohms and a suggested load of 470 ohms, this cartridge is engineered to be easily matched with any active phono preamp for MC cartridges.

Engineered for Precision

The Machiavelli MK II is a marvel of mechanical and electrical engineering, tailored to deliver a pristine audio experience:

Robust Cantilever: The boron cantilever, known for its extra rigidity, ensures a stable and accurate tracking of the record grooves.
Sophisticated Coil and Magnet Design: The copper coil wire paired with a samarium-cobalt magnet forms the heart of the Machiavelli MK II, offering efficient signal generation and impeccable clarity.

Easy Setup, Exceptional Listening

Setting up a premium cartridge can be daunting, but the Machiavelli MK II simplifies the process:

Smart-Tractor Protractor: This feature guarantees precise alignment, providing an optimal setup that enhances the listening experience.
Uni-Den Geometry: The Machiavelli MK II employs this geometry to reduce energy dispersion and improve grounding, thus enhancing the overall audio fidelity.

The Dreamedia Experience

At Dreamedia, we understand that a home theater system is more than a collection of gadgets—it's an immersive experience. That's why we're here to help you design an audio system that not only complements the Machiavelli MK II but also transforms your space into an auditorium of sonic delight.

Highlights of the Machiavelli MK II:

Type: High-output Moving Coil (MC) cartridge
Output Level: 0.4mV to 1.2mV
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 40kHz
Channel Separation: > 28dB
Suggested Tracking Weight: 1.8 to 2.2 grams
Weight: 10g
Body Material: Duraluminium 7050 alloy
Stylus Type: Line Contact
Cantilever: Boron
Internal Impedance: 30 ohms
Suggested Load: 470 ohms
Coil Wire: Copper
Magnet: Samarium-Cobalt

In Summary

The Gold Note Machiavelli MK II embodies the quintessence of vinyl playback. It's an instrument that not only plays your records but also respects and elevates every musical passage. With its dynamic range, easy setup, and compatibility, it's designed to be the heart of your audio system, beating in unison with your love for music.

As you contemplate the addition of the Machiavelli MK II to your home theater, remember that Dreamedia is here to guide you through every step—from selection to setup. This isn't just about listening to music; it's about experiencing it in its purest form.

MSRP: $3,000

Embrace the Machiavelli MK II and let your senses revel in the craftsmanship and audio excellence that Gold Note has to offer. Because when it comes to the art of sound, every detail counts, and with the Machiavelli MK II, those details are nothing short of a masterpiece.

Our Review

Introduction

The Gold Note Machiavelli MK II represents a bold statement in the high-output moving coil (MC) cartridge landscape. With a price tag that places it firmly in the high-end audiophile market, this cartridge aims to deliver an exceptional audio experience. Initial impressions suggest a product built with precision and a keen ear for the subtleties of vinyl playback. The Machiavelli MK II's specifications and design choices appear to cater to those seeking a premium addition to their turntable setup.

Build Quality and Design

Crafted from 7050 Duraluminium alloy, the body of the Machiavelli MK II exudes durability and a high-end aesthetic. The use of a Boron cantilever, paired with a high precision Line Contact diamond stylus, is indicative of Gold Note's commitment to quality. These materials are often reserved for cartridges at the pinnacle of performance, promising exceptional tracking and longevity. At an optimal weight of 10 grams, this cartridge is engineered to balance compliance and resonance control, potentially enhancing the audio fidelity of vinyl playback.

Technical Specifications

Diving deeper into the technical details, the Machiavelli MK II boasts an output level of 1.2mv, aligning it with many modern preamps and receivers with a moving magnet (MM) phono input. Its expansive frequency response of 10Hz – 40kHz should capture the full spectrum of audible sound, from the deepest bass to the highest treble nuances. An impedance of 470Ω is somewhat atypical for high-output MC cartridges, which may influence the choice of accompanying phono stage to ensure optimal electrical matching and sound quality.

Setup and Ease of Use

Gold Note's inclusion of the Smart-Tractor protractor and Uni-Den geometry signals a user-friendly approach to setup and calibration. These tools are designed to simplify the often-daunting task of cartridge alignment, promising accurate positioning for optimal sound reproduction. The compatibility with MM phono inputs widens the Machiavelli MK II's appeal, allowing it to be a formidable upgrade for a variety of systems without necessitating additional investment in a specialized MC phonostage.

Sound Quality

The sound characteristics of the Machiavelli MK II are reported to be both dynamic and resolving, with a slight warmth that should enhance the listening experience without overpowering the natural sound of the recording. In comparison to its peers, this cartridge is expected to hold its own, providing a sound that is punchy and full-bodied, a testament to its well-engineered diamond and coil design. The cartridge should excel across a wide range of music genres, from the intricate details of a jazz ensemble to the demanding dynamics of a rock band.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Machiavelli MK II's compatibility with MM inputs not only makes it versatile but also ensures that it can serve as a substantial upgrade to existing systems without necessitating a complete overhaul. This feature, combined with its robust build and detailed sound reproduction, positions it as a cartridge that can adapt to a variety of setups, preferences, and musical tastes.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The strengths of the Machiavelli MK II are clear: exceptional build quality, ease of setup, and a sound quality that punches above its weight. However, the suggested tracking force, which is on the higher end, may be of concern for those looking to minimize record wear. While no specific cons are mentioned, potential buyers should consider the compatibility of their tonearm and the cartridge's weight to ensure a harmonious match.

Value Proposition

At its $3,000 MSRP, the Machiavelli MK II sits among some stiff competition. For the audiophile willing to invest, it offers a compelling package of sound quality and user-friendly features. While not an impulse buy, its performance justifies its price point, especially considering the lack of necessity for an expensive MC phonostage.

Final Thoughts

The Gold Note Machiavelli MK II is a cartridge that embodies the passion for vinyl playback. It offers a blend of technical prowess and practical design, making it an attractive option for audiophiles looking to elevate their home audio system. Its strengths in build quality, ease of setup, and sound reproduction make it a worthy consideration for those ready to invest in their audio experience. As a piece of the broader home audio equipment puzzle, the Machiavelli MK II is a testament to Gold Note's dedication to high-fidelity sound.

Specifications