Seems like you have only a MM phono stage. If you have more gain that can handle a MC low output cartridge, but believe that you can't get a good one in your price category, take a look at a Denon DL103R, DL103S, or DL103D. They are all very good low output MC cartridges that are well under your price ceiling. For your "best cartridge under $450" classification, these have to be considered, although they do need about 65-70db gain in the phono stage.
Best cartridge under $450? No Grados please
I've been reading up on the Dynavector 10x5, Clearaudio Aurum Beta S Mk II, Shure v15vxMR and the Ortofon OM 20. I need a cartrdige for my new analog playback system and am looking to stay under $400-450. Anyone heard these cartridges or any others that are great deals in the price range? Have 'table and arm that Grado's might hum on, so cannot accept recommendations on them.Thanks