Grado Timbre Opus3 MI Phono Cartridge (High Output)

The Grado Opus3 is the entry point into Grado's Timbre series – a Moving Iron phono cartridge, hand-built in Brooklyn and Grado's first cartridge with a maple wood body. This High Output version delivers 4.0 mV for any MM phono input.

It brings technology and manufacturing know-how from the more expensive Grado models at an affordable price – the ideal first step into higher-quality analogue sound.

Why the Opus3?

Grado builds on the Moving Iron principle with a dual-magnet system: small moving mass, low inductance, open sound. The maple body – the same tonewood used in Grado's Heritage and Statement headphones – is thermally aged to dampen resonances.

The aluminium cantilever (modified four-piece OTL construction) is hand-fitted with an elliptical diamond. A new two-stage shielding process and ultra-pure UHPLC copper coils ensure a clean signal path and low mechanical noise.

What you hear

The typical, slightly warm Grado character with clear, effortless reproduction across the whole frequency range – without harshness. An excellent all-rounder for pop, rock and acoustic music.

Who is the Opus3 for?

For anyone with an MM phono input who wants to give their turntable its first proper step towards high end. Plain talk: if you already have a very fine turntable and a good phono stage, you'll get more enjoyment from a Platinum3 or Sonata3.

Our verdict

The Opus3 is the most affordable way into Grado's wood-bodied cartridges: musical, versatile and honestly made. A splendid starting point – and a clear upgrade for any entry-level turntable.

Technical specifications

• Type: Moving Iron phono cartridge (MI), High Output, stylus replaceable
• Series: Grado Timbre (entry level)
• Body: Maple wood
• Cantilever: Aluminium, modified four-piece OTL construction
• Diamond: Elliptical
• Output voltage: 4.0 mV (5 cm/s)
• Inductance: 55 mH
• Resistance: 660 Ω
• Recommended load: 10–47 kΩ
• Frequency response: 10–60,000 Hz
• Channel separation: approx. 30 dB (10–30 kHz)
• Compliance: 20 µm/mN
• Recommended tracking force: 1.6–1.9 g
• Weight: 8 g
• Manufacturing: Hand-assembled in Brooklyn, NY

Frequently asked questions

High or Low Output – which version?

This High Output version (4.0 mV) fits any classic MM phono input and is the right choice for most systems. The Low Output version (1.0 mV) can potentially sound even more open on a low-noise phono stage but requires significantly more gain.

Is the Opus3 MM or MC?

Technically a Moving Iron system, operated like an MM: 4.0 mV output, 10–47 kΩ load, on any MM input. Not sensitive to cable capacitance. The stylus is user-replaceable – a later stylus change without a workshop visit.

Where does the Opus3 rank in the Timbre series?

The Opus3 is the entry point. Above it come Platinum3 and Sonata3 (Jarrah wood), then Master3 and Reference3 with boron cantilever. All share the Moving Iron principle and the HO/LO design.

Why buy the Grado Opus3 at HD Zürisee?

Because a cartridge only shows its potential with correct setup. HD Zürisee in Wädenswil is an authorised Grado dealer; we fit the Opus3 precisely and advise you on the right phono stage. Free shipping from CHF 190.

Goes well with

The right turntable, more phono cartridges and the matching phono preamp.