The Oyster-MC for MM phono amplifiers
Along with the release of the Reference Celebration 40, Sumiko is releasing the Blue Point No. 3—a further tribute to its 40 years of cartridge development. Sumiko carefully examined and listened to the resonance characteristics of the Blue Point No. 2 and identified room for refinement. Since resonance has a greater impact than many listeners realize, they sought to redesign the cabinet's resonance around the generator... and we think they've struck gold.
The sonic presentation of the Blue Point No. 3 is reminiscent of vintage Shure and Stanton MMs, known for their smoothness. With the proven MC generator system, this smoothness is balanced by the subtlety and nuance you expect from a Sumiko MC. First and foremost—and if that word was ever appropriate—the Blue Point No. 3 builds its sound from the bottom up, with a wonderfully smooth low-frequency response. Bass lovers will get their money's worth here. Lush and warm, yet defined and structured—the naturalness of the bass will immediately captivate you. But that's not all. You can expect the same color and richness in the midrange, which still remains transparent, and a treble that is delicate yet airy.
The Sumiko Blue Point No.3 High is suitable for medium-weight tonearms.
Technical data
* Needle compliance measured at 100Hz
About Sumiko
Sumiko is a Japanese girl’s name that means something like “child of kindness” or “beautiful child”.
From the Oyster models to the Reference series, Sumiko handcrafts every pickup in the Land of Smiles, close to the waters where the eponymous oysters live, and has been doing so for over 40 years.
The model lines: Oyster and Reference
The Oyster series includes the MM cartridges Oyster, Black Pearl, Pearl, Rainier, Olympia, Moonstone, Wellfleet and Amethyst as well as the MC Blue Point No. 3, which is available as a high- and low-output MC.
The Reference Cartridge series includes four MC models: Songbird, Starling, Celebration 40, and Palo Santos Presentation. The Songbird is also available in high- and low-output MC versions. The Songbird and Starling are open-ended, meaning they don't have cabinets. The generators of the Celebration 40 and Palo Santos Presentation are housed in wooden cabinets with an open bottom.
All Sumiko cartridges come with a stylus guard. This is especially important for cartridges without a housing. Sumiko also understands that the eye is important and ships its cartridges in high-quality packaging.
Upgrade of the MM cartridges
You can upgrade your Sumiko MM cartridge by simply replacing the stylus cantilever. Important: All upgradeable cartridges operate with the same tracking force—so no adjustment work is necessary after upgrading the stylus cantilever.
Since the Black Pearl and Pearl are identical except for the stylus, a Pearl stylus upgrades the Black Pearl to the Pearl. The generators also differ in the Rainier through Amethyst models. You can read more about the differences in this excellent report by Bernhard Rietschel from LowBeats magazine.
The advantages of the higher-quality needle insert: Lighter needle carriers, a bare or better-cut diamond, or a better polish of the diamond – against or with the structure of the diamond crystal lattice – significantly improve the sound quality.
Upgrade steps stereo needles
Optional shellac sylus for MM cartridges:
For the models Rainier to Amethyst there is a Stylus RS78 with spherical (R 76µm) needle cut for shellac records.
"The Sumiko Blue Point No.3 High is a fantastic all-rounder. Details are accurately reproduced by the pickup, but not overly emphasized. The Blue Point No.3 seems to have a knack for highlighting the essential components of the pieces, thus facilitating access to the core of the compositions."
Knuth Zensen (FIDELITY 05/23)
Electronic devices:
1. General Use: • Electronic devices are designed for use in enclosed, dry rooms only. Direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures may impair function. • Avoid proximity to water sources or other liquids. 2. Electrical Safety: • Use only with the specified power source (e.g., 220-240 V AC). An incorrect power source may damage the device or be hazardous. • Never connect the device to overloaded outlets or extension cords. • If there is any visible damage to the power cord or other components, do not operate the device. 3. Operation and Ventilation: • Place the device on a stable, flat surface. Do not block any ventilation slots to prevent overheating. • Ensure sufficient distance from other devices or walls (at least 10 cm) to ensure optimal ventilation. 4. Children and Pets: • Keep the device away from children and pets, especially small parts that could be swallowed.
Speakers:
1. Setup: • Place speakers on a stable and secure surface or use suitable speaker stands. Tipping over may cause injury or damage. • Position speakers so they are not obstructed and optimal sound dispersion is ensured. 2. Environmental Conditions: • Speakers are intended for use in dry, enclosed spaces. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight, which could damage materials or electronics. 3. Connections: • Use only compatible amplifiers and cables that meet the speaker's technical specifications. • Avoid incorrect polarity connections to prevent damage to the speaker or amplifier. 4. Children and Pets: • Speakers are not toys. Make sure they are placed out of reach of children and pets. 5. Care: • Clean the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners or water.
Cable:
1. Use: • Cables are for their intended use only. Use them only with devices that meet the cable's technical specifications. • Ensure that all connections are secure and tight for optimum performance. 2. Handling: • Never pull on the cable to remove it from a device. Always hold the plug firmly. • Do not bend, overstretch, or place excessive strain on the cable. Cables should not run under heavy objects. 3. Children and Pets: • Keep cables away from children and pets as they can be a strangulation or injury hazard. 4. Inspection: • Check cables regularly for visible damage such as breaks, cracks, or frayed ends. Damaged cables must be replaced immediately.
Accesories:
1. Use: • Accessories such as adapters, mounts or cleaning utensils must only be used for their intended purpose. Incorrect use can cause damage. 2. Care: • Clean accessories only according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid harsh cleaning agents or use in damp environments. 3. Safety: • Ensure accessories are correctly fitted or connected to prevent accidents or malfunctions. 4. Children and pets: • Accessories, especially small parts, pose a choking hazard and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Common instructions for all categories: • Operating instructions: Read the operating instructions carefully before using the product. • Repairs: Do not open or repair the product yourself. Contact an authorized service partner or the manufacturer. • Contact us if you have any questions: We are always available to answer any questions you may have about the safe use of our products.
