new cartridge Help


So the time has come to start thinking about a replacement for my Ortofon HMC 20. My budget is $800-900 I listen mostly to rock a small amount of jazz and some folk.I generally like a well balanced sound nothing lean or bright. The table it will go on is a Pro-ject 2 Xperience with the 9c arm(carbon tube and bonded aluminium head shell) It is running into a PS Audio GCPH directly into jolida JD-502p.I had thought about trying a Benz Ace S not sure which output. I am also considering the Ortofon 2M black.I look forward to any other suggestions. Thanks in advance for all of you help.
128x128wilson667
The 2m black is an excellent cartridge in your budget range. It is my go to MM cartridge. For an MC cartridge, try a Dynavector 17d3 or Ortofon Cadenza. The Benz Glider is also a good performer. Each of these have good balance without being too aggressive in the treble. With the adjustment availability in the GCPH, any of them will work well. I also use a GCPH in my den system.
Manitunc
Have you used the Dynavector 17d3if you have can you tell me a Little about it's sound. It looks very interesting on spec and seems to be a good fit according to vinyl engine's resonance calculator.If anyone else has used the Dynavector 17d3 please feel free to chime in.
Although it's *below* your budget, the AudioTechnical AT150MLX is a quick and linear performer, with nice MM body but good low level detail, with excellent frequency extension with tight bass and smooth highs. Since you're considering the Ortofon 2M Black, a similarly priced MM would be the Clearaudio Aurum Beta S MK II MKII Wood phono cartridge. Given the great reviews a closely related version received in association with the Marantz TT15 turntable.

If you go LOMC, you'll probably get more for your money from a Denon or Audio Technica in your price range, such as a Denon DL-S1 or Audio Technica OC9/III.