In this Gold Note Machiavelli MKII Gold MC Cartridge review, we'll explore why this masterpiece of Italian engineering has become one of the most sought-after moving coil cartridges in the high-end audio world. As an audiophile reviewer at The Audio Tailor, I've had the privilege of experiencing many premium cartridges, but this one stands out for its exceptional attention to detail and sonic performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Machiavelli MKII Gold showcases Italian craftsmanship at its finest. The cartridge body, crafted from Duralumin 7000 alloy, features a sophisticated black finish adorned with an elegant golden logo. This isn't just about aesthetics – the robust construction provides superior damping characteristics essential for precise vinyl playback.
Technical Excellence
The technical specifications of the Machiavelli MKII Gold are impressive:
- Boron cantilever for optimal rigidity and minimal mass
- Line Contact diamond stylus (5×20μm) for precise groove tracking
- Samarium-Cobalt magnet system
- Frequency response of 10-40,000Hz
- Channel separation >28dB
Sonic Performance
The Machiavelli MKII Gold delivers a listening experience that's nothing short of extraordinary. With its 0.4mV output level and copper coil wire construction, it produces a sound signature that's both detailed and natural. The cartridge excels in:
- Bass response: Deep, controlled, and articulate
- Midrange: Rich, transparent, and emotionally engaging
- Treble: Extended and airy without any hint of harshness
- Soundstage: Wide and precisely layered
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality with premium materials
- Outstanding frequency response range
- Superior tracking ability with minimal record wear
- Excellent channel separation
- Sophisticated line contact stylus profile
- Compatible with a wide range of tonearms
- Remarkable detail retrieval
Cons:
- Requires careful setup for optimal performance
- Premium price point
- Needs high-quality phono stage to fully shine
- May be too revealing for lower-quality pressings
Installation and Setup
The cartridge's standard 9mm mounting hole diamond distance makes installation straightforward, though we always recommend having our team guide you through the optimal setup process. The recommended tracking force of 1.8g to 2.1g needs to be precisely set for the best performance.
Who Is It For?
The Gold Note Machiavelli MKII Gold MC Cartridge is perfect for:
- Serious vinyl enthusiasts seeking reference-level playback
- Audiophiles with high-end turntable systems
- Collectors with valuable vinyl who appreciate precise tracking
- Music lovers who demand the ultimate in detail and dynamics
A Symphony in Gold
The Gold Note Machiavelli MKII Gold MC Cartridge represents the pinnacle of analog playback technology. It's a testament to what's possible when traditional craftsmanship meets modern engineering excellence. For personalised guidance on integrating this exceptional cartridge into your system, our team at The Audio Tailor is just a phone call away at 1300 308 711.
Whether you're upgrading your current cartridge or building a new premium vinyl setup, this masterpiece deserves serious consideration. Feel free to reach out to our team for expert advice on maximising your vinyl listening experience with the Machiavelli MKII Gold.
