2. analog
  3. 1244390917

help with cartridge selection

Hi,
I'm very new and would appreciate any advice.
I have a Garrard 401 and a SME 3009 S2 Improved(fixed headshell.
I have been reading about what cartridge to use with this arm and there are several options. From what I understand if I want to use the SME 3009 S2 Improved without mods I can use a Goldring 1042, or a Shure V15 or a Grado Red or a Shure M97xE as those seems the better matches.
And also some experiences tell that if I wanna use a Denon DL103 with the SME 3009 S2 Improved I need to change the SME plastic bearings for bronze ones and make other mods.

I couldnt find too many comments about how the arm/cartridge combos match with the Garrard 401 specifically. So I would like some advice on what will be the best cartridge for the SME 3009 S2 Improved with a garrard 401.
Thanks,
-bird
birdliver

Showing 1 response by audiofeil

audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I can't speak to the stock Denon 103 but the 14 gram Zu/Denon 103 and 103R perform quite well in tonearms with effective masses around 10 grams. I have many positive responses from customers in this regard.

Zu voiced these cartridges with Rega tonearms which I believe are in the 9-11 gram range.

However, a heavier counterweight may be necessary.

Dealer disclaimer.
More to discover