RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC Phono Cartridge (MC) For Sale: Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC (Low Output / Low Compliance) – Mint, Less Than 30 Hours Use Selling a Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC (Moving Iron for Moving Coil preamps) cartridge – low output, low compliance version. This is one of Soundsmith’s most musically engaging cartridges, offering superb detail retrieval, rich tonal balance, and excellent tracking. • Output: ~0.4mV – compatible with most MC phono stages • Compliance: Low – ideal match for heavier tonearms (A superb match for arms like the Thomas Schick, SME 3012, and other medium-
At A$2,200, this looks a touch ambitious versus the usual used value for a Zephyr MIMC Star, which generally sits around the low-A$2,000s when clean and verified. It’s not wildly out of line for a like-new example, but it’s closer to retail territory than bargain territory, so I’d call it fair-to-high rather than a standout deal.
What makes it worth considering is the cartridge itself: the Zephyr MIMC is a well-regarded low-output moving-iron design with excellent channel separation, a refined line-contact stylus, and very good tracking when set up properly. If it truly is like new, the big upside is buying into Soundsmith’s sound and build quality without starting from scratch. I’d still want confirmation of hours, exact stylus condition, and whether the original packaging and accessories are included.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Soundsmith traces its roots to Peter Ledermann, a veteran audio engineer with over 50 years of experience, whose career spanned design roles at RAM Audio and Bozak speakers, followed by stints at IBM's T.J. Watson Research Center. Leaving corporate life in 1991, Ledermann transformed his earlier audio mentoring venture, The Soundsmith, into a full-fledged manufacturing company based in Peekskill, New York. For more than 40 years, he has served as president and chief engineer, channeling a lifelong passion for science and sound into innovative analog solutions.
The brand specializes in handcrafted phono cartridges, renowned for their moving-iron, fixed-coil designs that deliver exceptional sonic detail and value. Models like the Aida high-output cartridge exemplify Soundsmith's commitment to precision engineering, with customizable options such as ruby cantilevers. While not venturing into amplifiers, speakers, or digital gear like DACs, their focus remains laser-sharp on elevating vinyl playback through superior cartridge technology.
Positioned as a niche boutique in the high-end market, Soundsmith earns acclaim among discerning audiophiles for its artisanal quality and Peter Ledermann's personal touch, including ties to his charity DirectGrace Records. Reviews from outlets like Stereophile highlight its consistent excellence, making it a go-to for vinyl enthusiasts seeking transformative performance without mainstream hype.
See all Soundsmith listings on RADAR.
