Short summary

Clearaudio’s flagship moving-magnet cartridge, drawing technology from the brand’s reference Goldfinger range. A diamond-coated boron cantilever and double-polished stylus give detail and strong channel separation, with high output and an ebony wood body.

Key info

  • Flagship moving magnet cartridge from the V2 series
  • Diamond-coated boron cantilever
  • Cantilever derived from the Goldfinger Statement
  • Double-polished diamond stylus
  • High channel separation
  • Exceptionally high output for low-sensitivity phono stages
  • Ebony wood body
  • Precious metal bearing inlay

Specifications

Physical characteristics
Weight 9.0g (± 1g)
Enclosure material ebony wood with german silver inlay
Phono cartridge specifications
Frequency response 20hz - 20khz
Channel separation (1khz) 30db
Inductance 400mh
Output Voltage (1khz, 5cm/s) ∼ 3.6mv
Stylus Type Boron
Recommended Tracking Force 2.4g ± 0.3g
Recommended Load Capacitance 100pf
Compliance, Dynamic, Lateral 17μ/mn
Channel Balance (1khz) 0.2db

Description

A New Direction for Moving Magnet Design

As Clearaudio continues to elevate benchmarks within its moving coil cartridge portfolio, equal focus has now been directed toward the moving magnet category. This development marks a deliberate shift aimed at redefining expectations within the MM segment. Rather than incremental updates, the approach reflects a fundamental reassessment of performance priorities. The objective is clear and uncompromising. The result is a cartridge engineered without legacy limitations.

Proven Excellence Across the V2 Series

From the Concept V2 through to the Maestro V2, Clearaudio’s moving magnet cartridges have consistently occupied a leading position within their class. These designs have earned recognition among listeners for their refined construction and dependable sonic accuracy. Long-term adoption confirms their technical consistency. The V2 series represents stability rather than experimentation. Each model adheres to strict engineering tolerances.

Flagship Status Within the MM Range

The Charisma V2 stands as the definitive flagship of Clearaudio’s moving magnet lineup. Its position reflects both measured performance gains and material upgrades beyond previous models. No concessions are made in its specification. This cartridge is intended as a reference point. Its role is to define the upper boundary of MM capability.

Advanced Cantilever and Stylus Assembly

Only carefully selected materials are utilised, including a diamond-coated boron cantilever derived from the Goldfinger Statement MC cartridge. This component ensures optimal stiffness, minimal mass, and precise signal tracking. The stylus itself is double-polished and mounted with extreme positional accuracy. Mechanical tolerances are tightly controlled. This assembly directly supports extended frequency response and channel stability.

High Output With Precise Control

Highly efficient magnetic structures provide the Charisma V2 with exceptionally high output levels. This allows reliable operation even with less sensitive phono preamplifiers. Dynamic range is preserved without sacrificing control or linearity. Signal strength remains consistent across playback conditions. System matching becomes less restrictive as a result.

Handcrafted Ebony Body Construction

The cartridge housing is formed from premium ebony wood, selected for its resonance-damping properties. A precision-set precious metal bearing inlay further enhances mechanical stability. This combination reduces unwanted vibration and coloration. Structural integrity is maintained over long-term use. The design prioritises both acoustic neutrality and durability.

Sound Quality Beyond Conventional Limits

The resulting sonic performance exceeds traditional expectations associated with moving magnet cartridges. Resolution, separation, and tonal balance reach levels previously considered unattainable within this format. Musical presentation remains controlled and authoritative. No artificial emphasis is introduced. The outcome is a cartridge defined by precision rather than character.

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Clearaudio is a German hi-fi manufacturer best known for precision-made turntables, tonearms, phono cartridges and phono stages. Founded in 1978, the company has built its reputation around analogue playback, combining clean engineering,…