This response might come a bit late, as the thread's a month old, but in that price range the Shure M97xE is worth looking into. Its tonal balance is warm when it's new but gradually takes on a well-balanced neutrality. Best of all, it's known (and justly) for its tracking ability. The Absolute Sound just made it an editors' pick. There's a well-written review of it on this site, too.
Help me decide: Grado Gold or AT440ML
I am about to change the needle in my Grado Gold cartridge (about $90) but I heard the AT440ML (about $90 for cartridge) might be a better tracking cartridge. I read someones comment that Grados and Shures do not tract so good on inner groves. I have an AR-XA turntable with at REGA RB300 arm. Which way should I go, buy a new needle for the Grado Gold or by a new AT440? Thanks.