Phono cartridge suggestions sought


Hi All,

 I am in the market for a new phono cartridge. I can run up to $1400 but would prefer not to if i can get the performance I want. 

I listen to predominantly Jazz on vinyl, though some rock, folk and classical also gets spun

I recently heard a Hana SL and Rega Apheta at a dealers—different decks, same room and system. Both sounded good although the Apheta was not as heavy sounding and at the same time sounded more “present”. I wasn’t really looking at the Apheta, but it was available to listen to. 

The room is accoustically live with lots of glass and hard surfaces but all sounds good. 

System: Naim Atom, Bryston TT, Parasound JC jr phono stage (so huge loading flexibility and gain up to the 60’s), Totem Acoustics Signature Ones, Transparent cables. Current cart: Denon 103r with 250 hours on it, so it is winding down. 

I have enjoyed the Denon. But wondering about that all elusive “more.”

on paper spec, nobody touches the Grados for channel separation, but not sure how essential a criterion that should be. Especially since I worked hard to tame some RFI from a nearby antenna and the Grados I have heard said are not well-shielded. 

Since my Totems only drop down to 45 Hz, I suppose absolute resolution on the low end could be sacrificed for other sonic goods. 

Ok, hive mind, what do you suggest?
dramatictenor

Showing 2 responses by schubert

OK , It was a bit in the face, dealer said would change with time which might be or not .More than most I really think a good cart can outdo a great one if it is set up perfectly and the great one is not .
It looked like the P6 had VTA  adjustment as well .
I heard the top of the new Sumiko MM line, the $600 Sumiko Amethyst, at a dealer on Totem Hawk , very nice tone and instumental seperation .
Was mounted on a Rega P6 which was also nice.
Also, which is important to me, it is a very easy cart to mount and adjust .
On my me to me Christmas list .