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Warmish, good tracker & low noise for used vinyl?

Hello folks - Of the carts listed, can anyone say from experience which would be warmest with good tracking and low surface noise playing used vinyl? On the radar: Denon DL-103, DL-110, Ortofon S30, Nagaoka M-150. Like what i've read about Grado but put off by reports of hum and that it's not a great tracker. Not too interested in highly detailed or anything with potential for being "bright" so avoiding the AT150MLX. Would like to keep cost below $400. System listed but it's for a KAB SL1210M5G (w/fluid damper) + Heed Quasar phono-pre (can do LOMC). Running a Stanton cart w/Pickering elliptical. Like the warmth quite a bit but could do with a bit wider and deeper stage. So looking for a replacement option given no more of the Pickering styli left. Listen to EVERYTHING (...well, almost...don't play rap or death metal). Thanks for your input.
128x128ghosthouse

Showing 3 responses by schubert

schubert
7,386 posts
 
I have used EVERY one of these carts and the Nag MP-150 is the best and not by a little bit.
schubert
7,386 posts
 
The best I have heard solely on used vinyl suppression is the Sumiko Oyster, which though "cheap" is tuneful.
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Ghost, stick with the MP-150 and change stylus every year or so.
Truth be told, I'd start with MP-110 which will take a MP-150 stylus .
More money just buys a more revealing cantilever and stylus. just what you don't need. I use a MP-300 which sounds little better than a MP-150 on the best vinyl.
FYI, the geo that contracts less is conical, I still recommend you try the cheap Sumiko Oyster first, you might be surprised.
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