Looking for a new cartridge- Dynavector Karat 17D3 or Sumiko Blackbird

I can speak for the Bird on my Classic.

As long as you’re CAREFUL, it a great cart in the $1K category.
There wasnt a low output version offered a few years back, so my experience was with the HO model. The low version may be nicer.

At least in my all tube system, I heard clean, detailed music with convincing bass,clear mids and highs, maybe once in awhile recording dependent-"hot" in the uppermost frequencies?

After crashing the stylus, sent it to SS for their best rebuild, which I thought was nicer than original.

The past 2 years the Audio Technica ART 9(also in your budget) has been on my table. Between the 2, the ART9 is a bit more convincing.
Check the extensive thread.

The only negative about the Bird’ is the exposed design. To most,no big deal. But if you’re a klutz as myself, it can mean a disaster.

Both carts will kill on your new Prime, assuming you have a phono stage up to the task.

Of the 2 carts you list, I think the DV is better. But if it was my system, I would buy a Shelter 501.

I’m really happy with my 17D3(wide/deep sound stage/ruler flat, wide freq response/excellent imaging, ambiance retrieval and tracking), but- be certain you have enough gain for a .3 mV/ch output. The Blackbird Lo outputs .7 mV/ch. Less required gain = less background noise. No listening experience with the Sumiko, so- no opinion. The DV has a slightly higher compliance and is lighter, which may make the Sumiko a better match for the VPI arm.

I have to say that I agree with sfall, the Shelter 501 is my all time favorite cartridge unless you are willing to spend the big bucks for a XYZ Universe or Dynavector DRT XV1s. I also have a Prime and had the Shelter 501, Dynavector 17D, a Lyra Dorian and a Dynavector 20 low output all at the same time, kept the Shelter 501. Also there is a guy, 2juki on EBay that sells the Shelters for a very good price, also check him out for a Shelter 901 series1 which is an end of the road cart for many. Good luck and enjoy your Prime.