Sumiko Celebration Alternatives?


I have used a Sumiko Celebration on my Kuzma Stogi Ref for about 2 years, and to GREAT results on various tables. I use it as my self-defined "top of the line" MC (and, yes, I know others that sound better but, at a price that I am not willing to pay) and I also use about a dozen and a half MM carts in rotation on other tables. The Celebration tracks vell well, is very sweet without being slow, powerful without being sloppy, and has a very large range that is pleasing throughout. I'd say balance is its watchword. The Celebration has mileage left, but it is not too early to think replacement. As such, and in the event I don't just up and buy another Celebration, I'd like to hear from those who have also used a Celebration about which carts you find that sound similar (regardless of price, for now). Thanks.
4yanx

Showing 2 responses by cmk

4yanx
If you like the Celebration, I would suggest passing it to Soundsmith for a retip. I've had a 103R and recently an AT 33PTG retipped as well. It is absolutely fabulous sounding.

To get the last nth of resolution would cost much more, and it is very high diminishing returns.
4yanx

You could consider:
1) Clearaudio Concerto
Heard this at a dealers shop on a Basis/Vector4 combo and it sounded very nice.

2) Dynavector XX2Mk2
A very nice cart too. Good presence and dynamics. Heard this on a SME30/V arm. If price is no object, go for the XV-1s, it IS that good.

3) Lyra Skala
Many have said this is similar to the mighty Titan. I've not heard this yet, but the Titan is one of those carts on my "wishlist" of super carts. Again if $ not a consideration, the Titan is the one to get.