Gold Note Vasari Gold MM-Pickup

With the Vasari series, Gold Note has consistently advanced classic MM technology. The cartridges were designed using computer modeling and engineered for precise and controlled tracking of the record groove. A key element in this is the one-piece, highly damped housing made of solid 7000 series aluminum alloy. The ultra-lightweight aluminum cantilever is integrated directly into the cartridge body, reducing unwanted vibrations and creating the foundation for precise signal transmission.

Vasari Shibata – precise scanning with a large contact area

The Vasari Shibata uses a Shibata diamond stylus, whose special cut allows for a larger contact area with the record groove. This increased contact area reduces the pressure on each individual contact zone, while simultaneously enabling particularly precise tracking of the groove walls.

The Shibata stylus profile was developed by Norio Shibata in the 1970s and represents a further development of the elliptical stylus shape. Due to the additional shaping of the contact surfaces, this profile is particularly suitable for the detailed reproduction of high-frequency information.

Vasari Gold and Red

In addition to the Vasari Shibata, Gold Note offers the series in two variants: Vasari Gold and Vasari Red. Both operate as magnetic cartridges with an output voltage of 4 mV and are therefore designed for use with standard MM phono inputs.

The Vasari Gold features a duralumin case and an elliptical diamond. The robust yet precisely crafted case provides a stable base for the aluminum cantilever and the magnetic system.

In contrast, the Vasari Red features a particularly lightweight case made of photopolymer resin with high damping. Combined with the conical diamond and the lower overall weight of 7 g, this creates an alternative sound signature within the Vasari series.

Precise MM technology

Both models use an Alnico magnet and copper wire. The 4 mV output voltage allows for easy integration into MM phono stages. The recommended load impedance is 47 kΩ.

With a compliance of 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne and a recommended tracking force of 2 g, the cartridges can be precisely matched to suitable tonearms. The distance between the mounting hole and the diamond is 9 mm for both versions.

Technical specifications – Vasari Gold

• Type: Magnetic system
• Output voltage: 4 mV
• Frequency response: 15–25,000 Hz
• Impedance: 1,000 Ω
• Inductance: 500 mH
• Recommended termination impedance: 47 kΩ
• Needle compliance: 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
• Channel separation: > 22 dB
• Recommended tracking force: 2 g
• Needle cantilever material: Aluminum
• Diamond: Elliptical
• Diamond size: 7.5 × 15.5 µm
• Coil wire: copper
• Magnet: Alnico
• Distance between hole and diamond: 9 mm
• Weight: 9.5 g
• Case: Duralumin, black with gold logo

Technical specifications – Vasari Red

• Type: Magnetic system
• Output voltage: 4 mV
• Frequency response: 15–25,000 Hz
• Impedance: 1,000 Ω
• Inductance: 500 mH
• Recommended termination impedance: 47 kΩ
• Needle compliance: 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
• Channel separation: > 20 dB
• Recommended tracking force: 2 g
• Needle cantilever material: Aluminum
• Diamond: Conical
• Diamond size: 15.5 µm
• Coil wire: copper
• Magnet: Alnico
• Distance between hole and diamond: 9 mm
• Weight: 7 g
• Housing: Photopolymer resin, black with red logo