Dear @jemmer01 : Obviously the Kandid will do better as the Kleos too that I owned and is very good performer.
" I am looking for something with more punch and dynamics. I listen to rock, blues, jazz and country. The rest of my system is Audio Research and Wilson."
You can improve this combo too with different amplifier (s ), obviously at a higher price than a cartridge change.
Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.