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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 2 responses by terry9

terry9
2,211 posts
 
My dealer kept telling me: table, arm, cartridge. I didn't believe him and upgraded cartridge, arm, table. I was wrong.

Just so you know my preferences, I have owned DD and belt turntables, currently one DD and two belt. I much prefer belt: cleaner and quieter with better inner detail, IMO, and with a big platter, better speed consistency. Yes, going all the way to a Koetsu was a notable improvement, but until I improved my TT, a lot, the K didn't sound that much better.

Doing it again, I would spend on table, arm, and cartridge, in that order. YYMV
terry9
2,211 posts
 
Rob, just a word of caution, although it sounds like you don't need it -  all solid state does not sound the same. Many other factors are far more important: resistors, capacitors, topology, and synergy.

Just as tube electronics differ one from the other, so do solid state pieces. I used high priced tube equipment in the past (ARC and boutique), and my current DIY system, based on solid state, gives up nothing to any of them, and is superior in most respects.

I would buy the piece that seems best to you. Period.
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