2. analog
  3. 1139522549

Which cartridge is the Imaging/soundstaging champ

Hello all:
I'm a new participant in these forums, though I've read virtually every post for the last 18 months. I'm a new owner of a Scoutmaster/JMW 9.
I got a Grado Statement Sonata as a starter cartridge(also using the VPI 3 gm headshell weight), and feel like I've gotten it set up pretty wel(VTA/VTF/SRA seem as good as I can get them). I have a nice high resolution system but can't seem to create an outrageously terriffic soundstage with pinpoint imaging like my digital front end can. I really can only listen to SOTA digital recordings at this point as my analog front end is just so superior overall. I do miss the excellent imaging and stage specificity though. I'm using the Cardas Neutral Reference phono cable into my EAR 864 preamp (with wonderful Mullard NOS tubes).
I feel the Grado is the culprit. What do you think? Which cartridge in the $750-$1500 range would be the imaging champ?
Thanks for your help.
Jim
jdolgin

Showing 1 response by cmo

cmo
471 posts
 
I had a Grado Statement on an Aries JMW-10 which I liked a lot. I moved on to a ZYX Airy 3S-SB and the difference was quite something to behold. The ZYX has a lot more to offer on all musical fronts.......... It does all of the audiophile things: sounstaging, imaging, etc., but above all it is always musical.......... I always enjoy my records with this cartridge.

Hope this helps

Chris
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