2. analog
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High end cartridge

I post similar question in other forum, but didn’t get help I need.


I want buy high end cartridge to replace my old one, I have very little experience with cartridges, only entry level of Ortofon, Denon, and Shelter, the last two brands I didn’t like them. So I like ask folks here who have great experience with cartridges, and with VPI FB Gimbal tonearm.

 

I’m concern very much about SQ differentials, I like full body sound, live, punch, authority, and neutral. My first choice will be Ortofon Cadenza black, but before go for it, I want check other brands for better alternative.

 

I see many people go for Lyra or Dynavector, I’m aware they are high end, but I have doubt the sound charastric of these cartridges not close to what I want, but more similar to Denon, and Shelter.

 

I wonder if my assumptions are correct?

 

And about Soundsmith, Benz, Van Den Hul, how good are these? And compare to Ortofon?

 

And will be other brands worth to check?

 

Thanks to all.

knight7m
polkalover
100 posts
 

I use the Soundsmith Paua- best cart I've ever had.  It solved a grounding and rumble issue I was having and also delivers tremendous SQ.  Wouldnt buy any other brand.  I also owned  the Kiseki Purple Heart-  this cart although very detailed was extremely sensitive - translation caused problems.

Based on your description of sound - I would go with a soundsmith- but then again I'm biased.

cpr267
7 posts
 

I just upgraded from ortofon 2m Bronze to a Soundsmith Carmen MK II and I'm very happy with it. My table is a VPI Scout Jr with a gimble bearing. This cart really brought my system to the next level in terms of detail, dynamics, soundstage and imaging. I think it was the right choice. Great compliment to my system. 

guyd
1 posts
 

Sumiko 

papafrgog
101 posts
 

+1 Lyra Kleos

I have replaced AT & Linn MCs,  I have an Aesthetix IO Eclipse phonostage. I auditioned multiple cartridges on my TT at my dealers showroom in this price range ($3,500) which was the key for me.

I went with my ears, and haven't looked back.  (or at least refuse to look back)

 

sokogear
1,056 posts
 

I have a van den Hul MC One Special. Very neutral, detailed cartridge. On the high side of output for a MC. Website says output is .6 mV, but the box mine came in says .75. (personally signed by AJ van den Hul). Styli are specially shaped according to VDH which makes them exceptionally long lasting and their SQ doesn't degrade over time - they just completely wear out - pretty interesting. You can send them back to van den Hul and they will service it for a reasonable price and bring it back to new specs with only the work needed.

Also, about 2 years ago they switched distributors in the US to VPI (interestingly enough) so if you bought your TT from a dealer, they can sell you a cartridge. As has been said above, phono stage is important - when I switched from the MC setting on my integrated phono stage to an external Sutherland Insight (great value in a PS) it was a dramatic improvement in SQ coming from the MC One Special. When I adjusted the load from 200 to 100 ohms, that further improved the sound.

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