Grado Opus 4 Moving Iron System Low Output

Grado Opus 4

The Grado Opus 4 is the entry point to the Timbre Series and conveys the characteristic sound and construction of Grado wooden-bodied pickups. Based on decades of experience in pickup development, it combines a balanced, musical reproduction with Grado's fundamental design principles.

Like the higher-end models in the series, the Opus4 also utilizes Grado's moving-iron technology. The low moving mass enables a stable and precise signal, contributing to consistent playback and high long-term reliability.

The Opus4 is available in both stereo and mono versions, as well as in high-output and low-output versions.

Sound and performance

The Opus4 delivers a balanced and controlled performance, combining clear detail reproduction with a smooth, natural treble range. The midrange is present and warm, while the bass remains defined and authoritative.

Even with different recordings, the Opus4 maintains a stable and coherent soundstage. Channel separation and spatial representation support a natural musical flow without overshadowing the character of the individual recording.

Moving iron technology

Like all Grado cartridges, the Opus4 is based on the Flux-Bridger principle patented by Joseph Grado. In this system, an iron piece with a particularly low moving mass moves, while the coils remain fixed in position.

This design enables precise and rapid signal transmission, combining responsiveness and control with high harmonic integrity. At the same time, it contributes to the reliable and consistent operation of the pickup.

Diamond and cantilever

The Opus4 features a bonded elliptical diamond stylus mounted on an aluminum cantilever. The elliptical profile ensures effective contact with the record groove and reliable tracking.

The aluminum cantilever ensures stable and controlled operation. The combination of diamond and cantilever delivers clear, balanced reproduction across a wide range of recordings.

High-purity 5N-OCC copper

Grado uses high-purity 5N-OCC copper for the internal signal path. The material was chosen for its good conductivity and consistent properties.

Cryogenic treatment and internal damping of each pickup help to reduce unwanted resonances and preserve the integrity of the audio signal.

Case made of American Maple

The Opus4's housing is made of American maple. The wood was chosen for its resonance-controlling properties and contributes to the pickup's balanced tonal character.

The design enables stable playback and reliable performance on a wide variety of tonearms.

Technical data

• Case: American Maple Wood
• Needle carrier: Aluminum
• Diamond: elliptical diamond
• Output voltage:
  • High Output: 4.0 mV at 5 cm/s (45°)
  • Low Output: 1.0 mV at 5 cm/s (45°)
• Inductance:
  • High Output: 55 mH
  • Low Output: 6 mH
• Internal resistance:
  • High Output: 660 Ohm
  • Low Output: 70 Ohm
• Recommended termination impedance: 10–47 kOhms
• Weight: 8.3 g
• Tracking force: 1.6–1.9 g
• Needle compliance: 20 µm/mN
• Channel separation: average 30 dB at 10–30 kHz
• Frequency range: 10–60 kHz
• Capacitance insensitive
• Versions: High Output, Low Output, Mono