Flying under the radar, particularly their lower priced offerings, but perhaps consider the My Sonic Lab line . I just bought the Hyper Eminent, and am enjoying it very much. I also heard the Ultra, which is their next model up. That leaned a bit toward the linear/neutral side, with tight (well defined) bass, and more extended highs. The Hyper is just a tad fuller, and gives up the Ultra's bass definition in favor of more bloom. In my setup, and my taste, I preferred the Hyper over the very formidable Ultra. There is also the base model Eminent EX which I have not heard. After the above 3 models, the remaining 2 models are reference level, and much more expensive. But don't forget MSL. I play a lot of pop/rock, vintage pressings. Not so much audiophile fare, which the Ultra certainly did shine with. Both wonderful cartridges for which only personal taste could decide between them.
Next MC Cartridge Advice/Recommendations
Hello All,
I'm currently running a Kiseki Purpleheart on a Technics 1200 GAE turntable. I have two separate phono preamp options (Manley Chinook and Doge Clarity).
The Kiseki is running fine but is arguably racking up the hours. My system is really pleasing with vinyl so I put some real mileage on the Kiseki Purpleheart during the pandemic! I lent my backup (Audio Technica ART9) to a friend who broke it. Needless to say, I want to get my next cart in the house before the Purpleheart gives up on me. :)
I really love the balance of smooth v. detail on the Purpleheart. At times it reminds me of reel-to-reel. It is on the warmer side of things and can sound lush.
Any advice on the following cartridges? Have you heard any and what have you compared them to?
- Ortofon Windfield TI
- Audio Technica 1000
- Dynavector XV-1S
- Clearaudio Stradivari v2
- Lyra Kleos (both regular and super low output)
- Hana Umami Red
My system is all tube (pre, power, phono pre(s)) and horn speakers (Cornwall IV).