Grado Sonata1 Ref Vs. Audio Technica AT33EV


I've been using a Grado Sonata1 Reference cart for the past 1.5 years, and recently upgraded my speakers from monitors to floor standers. Now with the more pronounced bass, I'm noticing the Grado is a bit washy in the bass. The quantity if there, and it goes deep, but it's a bit soft. This is with a PS Audio GCPH and a Clearaudio Emotion TT. I'm considering making the switch to a more budget-friendly MC cart, particularly the AT33EV. Has anyone heard both the AT33EV and the Grado Sonata1 and can make a fair comparison?

Things I love about the Grado are: absolutely beautiful midrange, delicate treble, great harmonic detail, timbre, and lushness, soundstage. Really the only things I can think of that would need improving might be the bass "cleanliness", and perhaps a tad more extension in the treble. Maybe the AT33EV can't live up to all that?
jwglista

Showing 2 responses by fourwnds

Wondering about how it was going with new cart. I too am experiencing soft bass performance. I have same cart and have GoldenEar t3's. I was thinking it might have to do with the thick carpeting and suspended second floor
Thanks and glad to hear you solved your bass issue and congratulations on new table as well. Do you miss anything or sacrifice much in another area moving from reference sonata1 or is 20x2L levels better all around.