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Upgrade cartridge or TT?

Wondering if I should upgrade my TT or keep trying new cartridges?
Right now I'm using a Debut Carbon Esprit w/ Denon DL-110 & Project Tube Box S.
 
I've done a lot of reading of the other forum posts here, and it seems like upgrading the cartridge would be the easiest financially, considering the jump from a mid-level TT to a high end.  That being said, the amount I will keep spending on different cartridges will end up being the same as a new TT...

The previous cartridges I've used on this turntable, and in order are: Shure M97xE, AT440MLB, Ortofon Red, Ortofon Blue, and now of course the Denon DL-110. I didn't enjoy the Shure or Ortofon Red very much.  I like the Denon a little more than the Blue and AT, but overall, the differences between the three are minute to my ears.

On my watchlist currently:
- Ortofon Bronze
- Denon DL-103R
- Sumiko Blue Point #2
- AT33EV

I don't think I can pull the trigger on a cart costing more than $450, considering the price of the Esprit wasn't much more.  That gets me thinking I should upgrade the TT, and then I can look at higher end cartridges.

Regarding TTs, I've only had the Esprit, and an Audio Technica 1240.  There's no place to audition TT where I live, and most my friends have Crosleys from Barnes & Noble.... So I can only go off your experience, advice, and reviews.

My spending limit is $1300 for net TT + Cart, or the $450 on just a new cart, unless anyone thinks spending more is a wise choice.

Thank you kindly
128x128robelvick

Showing 1 response by glennewdick

glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,500 posts
 

another great phone preamp for bang for buck is the GRAHAM SLEE stuff they have a few for MM and MC.


Sim Audio moon 110lp MM/MC is another one I hear is good for the money and from a truly high end manufacture.


I think you go some great table rec's already in the above.


I'd say stick with a company that's been around for a while and not one that riding the vinyl resurgence wave.

and there is quite a few quality tables in the sub $1500. in Audiogon right now and if you can stretch it a bit to $2k there is some really nice used tables

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