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New Cart? Best all around performer...MM or HO

Thinking about a new cart, while putting the system through some changes. I'm looking for a good all round performer. I listen to a variety of music. Mainly Alt-Co, Rock, Acoustic, and Jazz.

Running an MMF-5 with Slee Era Gold. I would like a good warmth, but with detail (I'd imagine that about any cart would be steps above the 1012gx in there now).

I'm wanting to spend up to about 700 or so. I've seen some CA Maestro's at that range on here before. Also, thinking about some Dyna's, Virtuoso Wood, Beta Aurum S. Or, how is the goldring S stylus...it's a perfect fit, just a stylus replacement, and said to be better.

I've read the beta aurum s is good for rock and jazz. Any other input, I'd appreciate it greatly.
pablo16

Showing 6 responses by pablo16

pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
The grado sonata is listed as 1.5 and the Era Gold says it will take to a 2.5, so I worry it would be too low output.
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
Stringreen: what would you suggest...$700 max, will buy used, if low hours...but, with using the Era Gold, it states I can only go as low as 2.5
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
What are the sound characteristics from the AT's?
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
A TT, et al. retailer suggested the Dyna 20x. What do y'all think? In a review it mentions the Shure V15 is better for bright systems...seems like a tough comparison though, and I'm just baseing this on price.
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
Thanks Dsockel...seems like we about have a similar setup...I'm going more towards the Dyna, just hope it's warm enough...it sounds like it's detailed from all the reviews/posts, but worry that it might override warmth/musicality
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
I think it's between these two now: Dyna 20xh and Benz Micro H2 wood body.

I can get them both for the same price. The Benz will be used, but broken in. My thinking is: a) I don't have enough time to break one in anyway, so instant changes will be nice without wondering what's to come and b) it will show me what I'm missing, or if I'm looking for something else quickly.

The benz seems like a real nice cart, as does the Dyna. I'm wondering if the benz will take me further down the road later with upgrading table, arm, etc.
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