Audio T Verdict
The Sumiko Blue Point No.3 is a particularly useful moving-coil cartridge because you can choose how deeply you want to commit to MC amplification.
The High Output version produces 2.5mV and is specifically designed to work with a conventional 47k-ohm moving-magnet phono stage. That makes it an attractive option if you already own a good MM input but want to move from a moving-magnet cartridge to a moving-coil generator without replacing the rest of the phono electronics.
The Low Output version takes the more traditional MC route. Its 0.5mV output requires considerably more gain and a suitable load above 100 ohms, making it the natural choice if you already own a proper moving-coil phono stage.
Mechanically, the two versions are the same. Both use a 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical stylus mounted to an aluminium-pipe cantilever, with high-purity copper coils and a resonance-controlled housing.
The cartridge weighs only 6g and has moderate compliance, so it should be straightforward to accommodate on many conventional tonearms. Sumiko recommends a tracking force of 2.0g, with an acceptable operating range of 1.8–2.2g.
The important thing is to order the correct electrical version. High Output is not automatically the lesser option and Low Output is not automatically better. The right Blue Point No.3 is the one that properly matches the phono stage already in your system.
Whichever version you choose, careful alignment and tracking-force setup are worthwhile, and Audio T can help with cartridge fitting and phono-stage matching if required.
Sumiko Blue Point No.3 Moving Coil Cartridge
The Blue Point No.3 is available in two versions built around the same cartridge body, stylus and cantilever:
- Blue Point No.3 High: 2.5mV high-output moving coil
- Blue Point No.3 Low: 0.5mV low-output moving coil
Both versions share:
- Moving-coil generator
- 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical stylus
- Aluminium-pipe cantilever
- High-purity copper coils
- Resonance-controlled cartridge housing
- 13Hz–35kHz frequency response
- 30dB channel separation at 1kHz
- Less than 1dB channel balance at 1kHz
- 12 x 10-6cm/dyn compliance at 100Hz
- 20-degree vertical tracking angle
- 1.8–2.2g tracking-force range
- 2.0g recommended tracking force
- 6g cartridge weight
- 17.37 x 17.16 x 23.94mm dimensions
- Hand-assembled in Yokohama, Japan
High Output or Low Output?
The most important decision is not which version costs more or sounds more impressive on paper. It is which one properly matches your phono stage.
Blue Point No.3 High
- 2.5mV output
- 135-ohm internal impedance
- 47k-ohm loading
- 100–200pF capacitance
- Designed for MM phono stages
- No MC step-up device required
Blue Point No.3 Low
- 0.5mV output
- 28-ohm internal impedance
- Recommended load above 100 ohms
- Requires suitable MC gain
- Compatible with adjustable MC stages
- Can also suit an appropriate step-up arrangement
Choose the Version to Match Your Phono Stage
The High and Low versions require very different phono-stage settings.
Do not assume that any input marked "Phono" will work correctly with both.
If you are unsure whether your existing amplifier or phono stage is suitable, check before ordering.
Blue Point No.3 High
The High Output version produces:
2.5mV at 1kHz.
Its internal impedance is:
135 ohms.
Sumiko specifies a phono-stage load of:
47k ohms.
This is the familiar resistance used by conventional moving-magnet phono stages.
Moving Coil With MM Phono Compatibility
The High Output Blue Point No.3 is still a moving-coil cartridge.
The difference is that additional coil winding allows it to generate enough voltage to operate with the gain normally provided by a moving-magnet phono stage.
A Simple Route From MM to Moving Coil
If your turntable system already contains a high-quality MM phono stage, the Blue Point No.3 High allows you to move to an MC generator without automatically replacing that stage.
100–200pF Capacitance - High Output
Sumiko specifies:
100–200pF capacitance.
When considering capacitance, remember that the cartridge sees the total contributed by:
- Tonearm wiring
- Turntable interconnect
- Phono-stage input
If your MM phono stage provides adjustable capacitance, its setting should therefore be considered alongside the turntable wiring rather than in isolation.
Blue Point No.3 Low
The Low Output version produces:
0.5mV at 1kHz.
Internal impedance is:
28 ohms.
Sumiko recommends a phono-stage load of:
Greater than 100 ohms.
The Low Output Version Requires MC Gain
The 0.5mV Blue Point No.3 Low is not intended to operate directly into a conventional MM-only phono stage.
Use a suitable moving-coil phono stage or an appropriately matched MC step-up arrangement.
Why Is the Low Version Different?
The Low version uses fewer turns of copper wire within its moving-coil generator.
This reduces both moving mass and internal impedance but also reduces the voltage generated by the cartridge.
The result is a cartridge requiring more phono-stage gain than its High Output counterpart.
Gain and Loading Are Separate
Cartridge matching involves two different electrical considerations:
- Gain: how much the cartridge signal is amplified
- Loading: the electrical load presented by the phono stage
A phono stage can have the correct resistance setting while still providing the wrong amount of gain.
Choosing a Phono Stage for the Low Version
Look for a stage that provides:
- Suitable gain for a 0.5mV MC cartridge
- Load impedance above 100 ohms
- Low input noise
- Accurate RIAA equalisation
- Useful overload margin
Browse phono stages at Audio T.
Using a Step-Up Transformer
The Low Output version may also be partnered with a correctly matched moving-coil step-up transformer feeding a suitable MM phono stage.
Transformer matching needs to consider:
- Cartridge internal impedance
- Transformer ratio
- Input impedance of the following MM stage
- Overall system gain
The highest available transformer ratio is not automatically the correct one.
Elliptical Stylus
Both versions use a:
0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical stylus.
An elliptical profile has different front-to-back and side-to-side radii, allowing it to follow groove modulation more accurately than a basic spherical profile.
Why Elliptical?
An elliptical stylus offers a useful balance between:
- Accurate groove tracing
- Practical setup
- Record compatibility
- Long-term everyday use
It is less alignment-sensitive than some very fine line-contact profiles, but correct cartridge geometry still matters.
Aluminium-Pipe Cantilever
The stylus is mounted to an aluminium-pipe cantilever.
The hollow construction allows Sumiko to balance useful rigidity with relatively low moving mass.
High-Purity Copper Coils
Both versions use high-purity copper within their moving-coil generator.
The electrical difference between High and Low Output comes partly from the number of turns used within those coils.
Resonance-Controlled Housing
For the No.3 generation, Sumiko reworked the Blue Point housing to reduce internal resonant cavities.
The cartridge body therefore forms an important part of the design rather than simply providing a protective shell around the generator.
13Hz to 35kHz Frequency Response
Both versions are specified at:
13Hz–35kHz.
30dB Channel Separation
Sumiko specifies:
30dB channel separation at 1kHz.
This describes the cartridge's ability to keep the information recorded on the left and right groove walls electrically distinct.
Less Than 1dB Channel Balance
Channel balance is specified at:
Less than 1dB at 1kHz.
6g Cartridge Weight
The Blue Point No.3 weighs:
6g.
Its compact body measures approximately:
- Width: 17.37mm
- Height: 17.16mm
- Depth: 23.94mm
Check Tonearm Compatibility Before Fitting
Although a 6g cartridge is compatible with many conventional tonearms, weight is not the only consideration.
Confirm counterweight range, tonearm effective mass, cartridge clearance and available alignment adjustment before installation.
Compliance
Sumiko specifies:
12 x 10-6cm/dyn at 100Hz.
Compliance describes the mechanical flexibility of the cartridge suspension and works together with tonearm effective mass when determining cartridge and arm compatibility.
2.0g Recommended Tracking Force
The specified operating range is:
1.8–2.2g.
Sumiko recommends:
2.0g.
Do Not Deliberately Track Too Lightly
Running a cartridge below its specified tracking-force range does not automatically protect your records.
Insufficient tracking force can cause mistracking and unstable groove contact.
Use a Stylus-Force Gauge
An accurate stylus-force gauge allows the final tracking force to be checked at the cartridge rather than relying solely on tonearm calibration markings.
20-Degree Vertical Tracking Angle
Sumiko specifies a vertical tracking angle of:
20 degrees.
If your tonearm provides height adjustment, this can form part of final setup, although the manufacturer's basic arm geometry should always be the starting point.
Accurate Cartridge Alignment
Correct installation includes:
- Overhang
- Offset angle
- Tracking force
- Bias or anti-skate
- Tonearm height where adjustable
- Azimuth where adjustable
Do Not Align the Cartridge by Eye
Use the correct alignment protractor or tonearm manufacturer's setup method.
Incorrect geometry can increase distortion, compromise tracking and contribute to unnecessary stylus or record wear.
A Phono Stage Is Essential
Do Not Connect Blue Point No.3 Directly to AUX or CD
Both versions require a proper phono stage providing gain and RIAA equalisation.
The High Output version uses suitable MM-type phono amplification, while the Low Output version requires appropriate MC amplification.
No User-Replaceable Stylus
Unlike Sumiko's moving-magnet cartridges, the Blue Point No.3 does not use a removable user-replaceable stylus assembly.
The stylus, cantilever and moving-coil generator form a precision assembly.
Do Not Attempt to Pull Out the Stylus Assembly
The stylus is not designed to be removed at home.
If the cartridge is worn or damaged, contact Audio T to discuss the appropriate service or replacement route.
Stylus Care
Good cartridge care includes:
- Keeping records clean
- Removing accumulated debris from the stylus carefully
- Lowering the tonearm using its cueing mechanism
- Avoiding contact with the cantilever
- Protecting the stylus while working around the tonearm
The Cantilever Is Delicate
Do not push or scrub the stylus sideways while cleaning.
A relatively small force applied in the wrong direction can damage the cantilever or suspension.
Blue Point No.3 High or Sumiko Amethyst?
Both can work with a conventional MM phono stage, but they use completely different generator principles.
Amethyst
- Moving magnet
- 2.5mV output
- 47k-ohm loading
- Nude Line-Contact stylus
- Replaceable stylus assembly
- 6.5g weight
Blue Point No.3 High
- High-output moving coil
- 2.5mV output
- 47k-ohm loading
- 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical stylus
- Stylus not user replaceable
- 6g weight
Compare the Sumiko Amethyst at Audio T.
High or Low Output?
Choose High Output If...
- You already have a good MM phono stage
- Your amplifier has MM but no MC input
- You want MC operation without another gain stage
- 47k-ohm loading suits your system
- You want the simplest route from MM to MC
Choose Low Output If...
- You already have a suitable MC phono stage
- Your stage provides enough gain for 0.5mV
- Loading above 100 ohms is available
- You use an appropriate MC step-up arrangement
Hand-Assembled in Japan
Sumiko cartridges are hand-assembled by specialist cartridge makers at Excel Sound in Yokohama, Japan.
Audio T Listening Experience
Our Southampton team has used the Blue Point No.3 in a customer's Michell Gyrodec system and subsequently tried different Sumiko cartridges across several turntables in store.
Read SUMIKO Has Landed at Audio T Southampton.
Professional Cartridge Fitting
A complete cartridge installation may involve:
- Physical mounting
- Overhang adjustment
- Offset-angle alignment
- Tracking-force adjustment
- Bias or anti-skate setup
- Tonearm height where available
- Azimuth where available
- Phono-stage gain selection
- Phono-stage loading
- Capacitance matching for the High Output version
If you are not confident carrying out these adjustments accurately, professional fitting is worthwhile.
Who Is the Sumiko Blue Point No.3 For?
Well Suited To
- Customers moving from MM to moving coil
- Quality turntables with compatible tonearms
- MM-based systems choosing the High Output version
- Dedicated MC systems choosing the Low Output version
- Customers wanting a relatively lightweight 6g cartridge
- Vinyl systems with accurate cartridge adjustment
- Existing Sumiko owners moving further up the range
Check Before Buying
- Select High or Low Output correctly
- High Output requires 47k-ohm MM loading
- Low Output requires suitable MC gain
- Low Output load must be above 100 ohms
- 6g cartridge weight
- 12 x 10-6cm/dyn compliance at 100Hz
- 2.0g recommended tracking force
- Accurate cartridge alignment is important
- Stylus is not user replaceable
Key Features
- Sumiko Blue Point No.3
- Oyster Series
- Moving-coil cartridge
- High-output version
- Low-output version
- 2.5mV High Output
- 0.5mV Low Output
- 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical stylus
- Aluminium-pipe cantilever
- High-purity copper coils
- Resonance-controlled housing
- 135-ohm High Output impedance
- 47k-ohm High Output load
- 100–200pF High Output capacitance
- 28-ohm Low Output impedance
- Low Output load above 100 ohms
- 13Hz–35kHz frequency response
- 30dB channel separation
- Less than 1dB channel balance
- 12 x 10-6cm/dyn compliance
- 20-degree vertical tracking angle
- 1.8–2.2g tracking-force range
- 2.0g recommended tracking force
- 6g cartridge weight
- Hand-assembled in Japan
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sumiko Blue Point No.3 moving magnet or moving coil?
Both versions are moving-coil cartridges.
Are there High and Low Output versions?
Yes. Audio T offers both versions.
What is the output of Blue Point No.3 High?
2.5mV at 1kHz.
What is the output of Blue Point No.3 Low?
0.5mV at 1kHz.
Can the High Output version work with an MM phono stage?
Yes. Sumiko specifically designs it to work with conventional 47k-ohm moving-magnet phono amplification.
Does the High Output version require an MC step-up transformer?
No, not when used with a suitable MM phono stage.
What is the High Output internal impedance?
135 ohms.
What load does the High Output version require?
47k ohms.
What capacitance does the High Output version require?
Sumiko specifies 100–200pF.
Can the Low Output version work directly with an MM-only phono stage?
No. Its 0.5mV output requires suitable moving-coil gain or an appropriate step-up arrangement.
What is the Low Output internal impedance?
28 ohms.
What load does the Low Output version require?
Greater than 100 ohms.
What stylus does Blue Point No.3 use?
A 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical stylus.
What is the cantilever made from?
Aluminium pipe.
What are the coils made from?
High-purity copper.
What is the frequency response?
13Hz to 35kHz.
What is the channel separation?
30dB at 1kHz.
What is the channel balance?
Less than 1dB at 1kHz.
What is the compliance?
12 x 10-6cm/dyn at 100Hz.
What is the vertical tracking angle?
20 degrees.
What tracking force should I use?
Sumiko recommends 2.0g, with an operating range of 1.8–2.2g.
How much does the cartridge weigh?
6g.
What are its dimensions?
Approximately 17.37 x 17.16 x 23.94mm W x H x D.
Will it fit every tonearm?
No. Check cartridge-weight capacity, effective mass, counterweight range, physical clearance and available alignment adjustment before fitting.
Can I replace the stylus myself?
No. The Blue Point No.3 does not have a user-replaceable stylus assembly.
What should I do when the stylus wears out?
Contact Audio T to discuss the appropriate servicing or cartridge-replacement options.
Where is Blue Point No.3 made?
Sumiko cartridges are hand-assembled in Yokohama, Japan.
Which version should I buy?
Choose Blue Point No.3 High if you have a suitable MM phono stage. Choose Blue Point No.3 Low if you already have appropriate moving-coil gain and loading.
Can Audio T fit and align the cartridge?
Yes. Contact your local Audio T store to discuss cartridge fitting, tonearm setup and phono-stage matching.
Related Sumiko Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Turntable and cartridge matching
- High-output and low-output MC advice
- MM and MC phono-stage matching
- Cartridge fitting and alignment
- Tracking-force setup
- Bias and anti-skate adjustment
- Tonearm compatibility checks
- Gain, loading and capacitance advice
- Step-up transformer guidance
- Turntable setup
- Stylus-care guidance
- Part-exchange options
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss whether the High Output or Low Output Sumiko Blue Point No.3 is the best match for your turntable, tonearm and phono stage.