Denon DL 160/DV 10x5, PrimaLuna PL2 Factory Stage


Hi, need some advice recommendations from cartridge gurus out there. I have a new toy, a PrimaLuna PL2 w/the factory phonostage and a Rega RB250 arm:

Specifications
Freq. Response: 10Hz-50kHz
Distortion & Noise: -83dB
Input Impedance: 50k Ohms
Gain: 42dB
Suggested Minimum Cartridge Output: 2.0 mV
RIAA Accuracy: <0.5dB @ 20Hz-20kHz
Dimensions: 1.26" x 1.5"

Thinking of pairing this up with a Denon DL 160:

# Output: 1.6mV
# Stylus: .1 x .2mm special elliptical diamond
# Cantilever: aluminum
# Frequency range: 20-50,000Hz
# Compliance: 14x10-6cm/dyne
# Tracking force: 1.3-1.9g
# Weight: 4.8g

Is this a good choice? I'm worried that the 1.6mV is too low. Although I read somewhere it's actually near 2.2 mV. I like the fact (from what I read) how it's forgiving, detailed yet smooth.... and more importantly inexpensive.

Would the Dynavector 10X5 be a better choice?

Any other recommendations in this price range? Trying to keep costs down/simple system.

Do I need shims for the VTA? Can I just use washers? What kind?

Thanks in advance.
elf73

Showing 1 response by rauliruegas

Dear Elf73: IMHO I think that you can do better through MM cartridges like the Shure M97X, Sumiko Pearl or the Shelter.
From my point of view and everything the same a MM cartridge ( loaded at 100K ) performs a little better than a HOMC: the MM one is in its " natural " stage/home.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.