I can understand why you would think that Grado's sound "dark" or "boring" if you like the AT sound. Most AT's had a rising high frequency response. As such, they tend to sound bright, "hot" or more "alive" than many other cartridges. On the other hand, many people find Grado's to be slightly "warm" anyhow. Comparing the two would probably highlight the differences in tonal balance to a great extent.
Viridian does bring up a valid point that the cartridges may not be properly loaded though. You might not believe the differences that changing the loading on a cartridge can make. You might want to check into this prior to dumping more money on a new cartridge as it sounds like you already have a few to choose from. The Ortofon's that "V" mentions might also be a good "mid-ground" between the AT and Grado sound.
As to P-Mounts, try contacting Garage-A-Records and see what they have to offer. They are basically a small yet personable operation that will walk you through your options. A call to Jerry Raskin's Needle Doctor will probably give you a few more makes / models to think about. Sean
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Viridian does bring up a valid point that the cartridges may not be properly loaded though. You might not believe the differences that changing the loading on a cartridge can make. You might want to check into this prior to dumping more money on a new cartridge as it sounds like you already have a few to choose from. The Ortofon's that "V" mentions might also be a good "mid-ground" between the AT and Grado sound.
As to P-Mounts, try contacting Garage-A-Records and see what they have to offer. They are basically a small yet personable operation that will walk you through your options. A call to Jerry Raskin's Needle Doctor will probably give you a few more makes / models to think about. Sean
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