I agree with the Grado recommendation. A Grado model may not match certain aspects of resolution, "hyper"-detail or frequency extension of some other cartridges in its competitive price range, but overall it may well give a better balance of: natural midrange, accurate timbre and accurate reproduction of harmonic overtones, good soundstage reproduction and overall musicality. If you listen primarily to acoustic music and need a higher output cartridge, the balance of virtues that a Grado offers can be hard to beat.
Took the vinyl plunge - need advice
I just took the vinyl plunge with an older TT. The arm which came with the table is a SAEC 407/23 (high-ish mass). My pre is a Jadis JP80 with MM phono stage. Over time, I expect to purchase a low-output low-compliance MC cart and may end up with a different arm. To use a low-output MC cart with my pre I will need a step-up transformer or pre-pre (have not decided which philosophy appeals to me more so I will have to read more on the topic - suggestions of reading material are welcome!)
IN THE MEANTIME, I ask for suggestions for a not-too-expensive, respectably good MM cart (which would match the arm) to tide myself over for the next several weeks while I get my MC cart/arm/step-up ducks in a row.
Vinyl listening will mostly be jazz, vocal, and classical with the occasional P-Funk thrown in.
Thanks,
Travis
IN THE MEANTIME, I ask for suggestions for a not-too-expensive, respectably good MM cart (which would match the arm) to tide myself over for the next several weeks while I get my MC cart/arm/step-up ducks in a row.
Vinyl listening will mostly be jazz, vocal, and classical with the occasional P-Funk thrown in.
Thanks,
Travis