Anyone looking to get more performance from a record collection and turntable should pay close attention to the cartridge, because it forms the critical connection between the record groove and the rest of the audio system. Grado Labs has renewed its well known Prestige Series and the current range now consists of three clearly positioned models: Green4, Red4 and Gold4. This makes it easier to select a cartridge that matches the turntable, phono stage and desired level of performance. The new Prestige Series combines Grado Moving Iron technology with elliptical diamonds, user replaceable stylus assemblies and high output operation, providing broad compatibility without immediately requiring a dedicated low output Moving Coil phono stage.

Proven Moving Iron technology in a renewed series

At the heart of the new Grado Prestige Series is the Moving Iron principle based on the patented Grado Flux Bridger design. The coil structure remains stationary while a very low moving mass is used to generate the audio signal. According to Grado, Green4, Red4 and Gold4 provide an output of 4 mV, a frequency response from 10 to 55,000 Hz, average channel separation of 25 dB and a recommended tracking force between 1.6 and 1.9 grams. The internal signal path also uses high purity 5N OCC copper, while internal damping is applied to reduce unwanted resonance and preserve signal integrity. These characteristics make the renewed Prestige Series a particularly interesting choice for anyone searching for a versatile Grado Moving Iron cartridge for a turntable upgrade.

Choosing between Green4, Red4 and Gold4

The Grado Prestige Green4 is the accessible starting point in the current range and is designed to deliver the core musical character of the Prestige Series. The Grado Prestige Red4 sits above it and is positioned for a balanced and controlled presentation with clear detail and a natural tonal character. At the top of the range is the Grado Prestige Gold4, which Grado describes as representing the highest level of performance within the Prestige Series. This gives turntable owners a logical upgrade path, whether they are replacing an ageing cartridge or looking for a more refined solution for a carefully assembled vinyl playback system.

Elliptical diamond and a user replaceable stylus

A useful feature of the renewed Prestige Series is its user replaceable stylus assembly. For the Green4 and Red4, Grado specifies a bonded elliptical diamond mounted on an aluminium cantilever. The elliptical profile provides effective groove contact and reliable tracking, making these cartridges suitable for regular listening across a wide variety of musical styles. Grado also states that Prestige Series stylus assemblies are interchangeable, creating additional flexibility for maintenance and long term ownership because stylus wear does not automatically mean replacing the complete cartridge. The cartridges weigh 6 grams and are offered in standard 1/2 inch mounting and P mount configurations, helping the Prestige Series work with a broad selection of turntables.

The new Prestige Series available directly from stock

If you are ready to upgrade your turntable with a new Grado cartridge, the three current Prestige Series models can be ordered from Hi Stands directly from stock. The Green4, Red4 and Gold4 therefore make it possible to choose the performance level that best suits your turntable and vinyl system without an unnecessary delay. Correct installation remains important, so always pay close attention to cartridge alignment and set the tracking force according to Grado's specifications. Careful setup allows the stylus to track the record groove correctly and helps you get the intended performance from your new cartridge while treating your record collection with care. More technical information about the complete range is available directly from Grado Labs.