Analog Fanatics Alert: Limited Production Shun Mook Ref 3 Cartridge.

Over the years Shun Mook's long experience with both ebony and analog has resulted in a series of extraordinary, limited production phono cartridges. As designer/manufacturer Bill Ying approaches eventual retirement, the 25 new, individually numbered Shun Mook Ref 3 cartridges ($7000) may well be his swan song.

As with previous models Bill Ying has partnered with cartridge manufacturer ZYX in Japan. The "engine" is unique to Shun Mook, but is based on the ZYX Premium Airy3 3D model built to Shun Mook's specs. The solid black ebony body is similar to the previous versions, with each cartridge fine-tuned by ear in Bill Ying's reference system during a 20 hour tuning process.

Compared to the prior model which used the ZYX R-1000 engine as its core, the new cartridge features new 6n single crystal copper coils, a micro-ridge stylus, and has a lower output of 0.24mV, a 4 ohm internal impedance, and a recommend load of less than 100 ohms. Sonically it promises more micro detail and improved dynamics.

Contact us for more on this cartridge and information on the current availability of other Shun Mook products. Happy to report that we even have a limited supply of Mpingo Discs ($90) back in stock!