What To Know
- The tonearm, a proprietary design, is a unipivot with a carbon fiber armwand and adjustable VTA and azimuth.
- The Concept, on the other hand, does not include a cartridge, allowing users to choose a cartridge that best suits their taste and system.
- If you value a warm and natural sound, a classic design, and a reasonable price, the MMF-7.
In the realm of high-end audio, the turntable remains the cornerstone of any serious music lover‘s system. Two of the most respected names in the industry are Music Hall and Clearaudio, and their respective MMF-7.3 and Concept turntables are considered true icons. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two turntable titans, exploring their design, performance, and overall value.
Design and Construction
Music Hall MMF-7.3
The Music Hall MMF-7.3 exudes a classic elegance with its solid wood plinth, available in a variety of finishes. Its platter is made of acrylic, which offers excellent resonance damping and stability. The tonearm, a unipivot design, is crafted from carbon fiber and features adjustable VTA and azimuth.
Clearaudio Concept
The Clearaudio Concept boasts a sleek and modern design. Its chassis is made of a lightweight alloy, providing excellent rigidity. The platter is constructed from a combination of aluminum and acrylic, resulting in a low-resonance and high-inertia design. The tonearm, a proprietary design, is a unipivot with a carbon fiber armwand and adjustable VTA and azimuth.
Performance
Sound Quality
Both the Music Hall MMF-7.3 and the Clearaudio Concept deliver exceptional sound quality. The MMF-7.3 offers a warm and natural sound with excellent detail and dynamics. Its bass response is deep and well-defined, while its treble is clear and extended. The Concept, on the other hand, provides a more analytical and precise sound. Its bass is tight and controlled, while its treble is articulate and airy.
Speed Stability
Speed stability is crucial for accurate playback. The MMF-7.3 uses a belt-drive system with a DC motor, providing consistent and accurate speed. The Concept, however, employs a unique magnetic drive system that eliminates the need for a belt. This results in exceptional speed stability and minimal wow and flutter.
Features and Versatility
Cartridge Options
The Music Hall MMF-7.3 comes with a pre-installed Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. This is a high-quality cartridge that offers a well-balanced and detailed sound. The Concept, on the other hand, does not include a cartridge, allowing users to choose a cartridge that best suits their taste and system.
Connectivity
Both turntables offer a variety of connectivity options. The MMF-7.3 features RCA outputs, while the Concept includes both RCA and XLR outputs. Additionally, the Concept has a built-in phono stage, making it a convenient option for those who do not have a separate phono preamplifier.
Value and Price
Music Hall MMF-7.3
The Music Hall MMF-7.3 retails for approximately $2,500. This includes the turntable, tonearm, and pre-installed cartridge.
Clearaudio Concept
The Clearaudio Concept retails for approximately $4,000. This includes the turntable and tonearm only. A cartridge must be purchased separately.
Which Turntable is Right for You?
The choice between the Music Hall MMF-7.3 and the Clearaudio Concept ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value a warm and natural sound, a classic design, and a reasonable price, the MMF-7.3 is a great choice. If you prioritize analytical precision, speed stability, and versatility, the Concept may be a better fit.
The Verdict: A Matter of Taste
In the end, both the Music Hall MMF-7.3 and the Clearaudio Concept are exceptional turntables that offer a superb listening experience. The MMF-7.3 excels with its classic design, warm sound, and excellent value. The Concept, on the other hand, impresses with its analytical precision, speed stability, and versatility. Ultimately, the best decision is the one that aligns with your personal tastes and requirements.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which turntable has a better bass response?
A: Both turntables offer excellent bass response, but the Clearaudio Concept tends to have a tighter and more controlled bass.
Q: Does the Music Hall MMF-7.3 come with a dust cover?
A: Yes, the MMF-7.3 includes a dust cover.
Q: Can I use a high-output cartridge with the Clearaudio Concept?
A: Yes, the Concept’s built-in phono stage can accommodate both high-output and low-output cartridges.