Lyra Etna SL vs. Transfiguration Proteus + Koetsu Urushi


I had an unfortunate incident and accidentally broke off the cantilever of my "My Sonic Lab Ultra Eminent Bc" which had barely 50 hours on it (long story). It was a terrific all a a-rounder and my back up Benz LPS is already getting long in the tooth so I guess it's time for  a new cart or carts.

I have read many reviews on the Lyra Etna SL and searched most forums and  almost all of them had rave reviews. Though I have not heard this cart personally nor any Lyra cart for that matter. What is holding me back is the price. It is difficult to purchase a cart ( or any piece of audio for that matter ) without a home demo. In this case, it will be a blind buy. As an example, the Ortofon A90, it had rave reviews and a lot of people love it. I didn't hate it but it wasn't my cup of tea. Now,  If I love the Etna SL  than great ( at this price range "like" is not enough ), if not I'm dead to rights with a very expensive cart. 

On the other hand, I have heard the Proteus and was absolutely impressed and I also have heard most Koetsu's which is definitely pure magic in the midrange. Though the different colors in the Urushi line still bewilders me. I was initially intrigued by the Coralstone but I didn't feel it would be a good all a-arounder for that price.

So, would you get the better more expensive cart ( I am assuming based on price alone ) or the musical flexibility of two carts with polar opposite characteristics? The price of the Lyra SL is almost similar to the Proteus plus Urushi added together. Your thoughts appreciated.

P.S. I have an extra armwand for my Graham so no need to get an extra tonearm.
P.P.S My system is in the virtual systems ( sorry, don't know how to attach it/link it here)
attymbb
Dear @attymbb: Why try to make a change for a different cartridge that means a different kind of performance?. My Sonic Lab cartridges has great design and quality excecution design and are second to none.

I like Transfiguration and Lyra too but your Sonic Lab needs only to be fixed by My Sonic Lab and if you want a second cartridge instead the LPS then you can think in the Transfiguration or the Etna where both are better than the Urishi.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.
Hard to believe you don't want to stay with the LPS.  Check with Soundsmith, be sure you don't just get different but not better sound in your quest.
the thing I like about Benz cartridges is the way the music is presented, especially classical.
I can only speak to proteus and was just thinking the other day as it was digging out a head melting solo by Jeff Beck on the song Superstitious.....am I glad I have this cartridge.