Cartridge recommendation please...


Jettisoned most of my record albums 20 years ago, but am considering a return to vinyl. I've dusted off my old but fully operational TT and would like to mount a new MM cartridge.

Equipment
Technics SL-1300 Direct Drive turntable
The TT would be mated to a Parasound 200 Pre, with a Parasound 2125v2 amp.
Speakers are PSB Silver i's, with an occasional switch to Vandersteen 1's for variety.
No current plan to add a separate phono preamp.

Sound
Jazz, classic soul/r&b, light rock is my preferred type of music.
I'm OK to trade some bass for better vocals and higher end clarity.
As my A'gon name suggests, I do not listen at elevated levels.

Technical/misc.
The SL-1300 currently has an equally old AudioTechnica cartridge (no obvious markings).
I'd like to target a cartridge in the $300 neighborhood.
Will get an additional headshell for whatever cartridge is purchased.
Any cautions for install, or brands to exclude?
If I've done it correctly, here's a link to the TT owners' manual.
https://usermanual.wiki/Document/technicssl1300OwnersManual.3287426015

I can certainly get recommendations from local retailers, though their choices would be for cartridge brands that they carry. My preference is to use the experience of... and hear from... the wider audience reading this post. Thanks much!
60decibels

Showing 2 responses by lmnop

@corelli  The MP200 has a nice full range sound. Pretty dynamic. The VM740 is leaner but more detailed. The VM760 has nice deep base and full soundstage. The MoFi is really smooth and detailed top to bottom. They’re both really good all around cartridges no matter your music preference. 

No idea about current pricing but close to your budget; Audio Technica VM740 or Nagaoka MP200

If you decide to stretch your budget; Audio Technica VM760 or MoFi Mastertracker

Have experience with all of them using vintage Kenwood DD TT and newer Technics 1210GR.