The 501 is not a "cool" sounding cartridge. It is well balanced, with good bass, and very musical. It is on par with the Helikon, but a little more "Koetsu-like". It is not quite as revealing as the 901. It sounds to me like it could be a good match for what you are after. The ZYX Fuji is quite revealing, and on par with a Shelter 901. The 501 has about a 40 hour break-in, and goes through some strange tonal phases during that time, so don't judge it too early. I noticed a boomy quality at first, then a nasal congestion, and then it finally really came out after about 25 hours, and finished off at 40. It is really a killer cartridge once it is broken-in. Absolutely great for the money, and a very good buy. Fully equal to just about anything else that sells for $2k, except the 901 of course.
Jay Kaufman at Audio Revelation is one of the biggest dealers of Shelter cartridges, and is a supporting advertiser on this website. I'd recommend calling him and asking what he can do for you.
Jay Kaufman at Audio Revelation is one of the biggest dealers of Shelter cartridges, and is a supporting advertiser on this website. I'd recommend calling him and asking what he can do for you.