Cartridge options going forward

You should post your system or at least turntable, tonearm and phono preamp. That will hopefully result in better input.

Lyra was not my cup of tea. I recommend you hear an EMT cartridge. I think they offer great sound as well as great value.

Have you checked with Lyra about rebuilding your Etna with the lambda upgrade?

Many suggest restoration.

I would ask Steve’s advice before going any further, he is highly respected.

https://vasnyinc.com/repair-service/

he gave me some good specific advice when I was researching, considering buying something for him to repair, sent him model names of ones I was considering.

I don’t think I will ever buy a very expensive cartridge, especially as I came to decide I would buy new, not re-tip or re-build, I always want a new suspension, so get a better profile and thus longer lasting stylus, enjoy it, new cartridge when needed.

I liked the specs, bought this new one, it’s my first MC, I love it’s wide channel separation imaging ability and it’s tight channel balance which allows a very stable phantom center.

https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/cartridges/type/moving-coil/at33ptg-2

I agree. Contact Soundsmith before you do anything else. You might want him to rebuild your Etna even if you decide to buy something else. Good luck!

Luxman PD171 turntable, Jelco TK850S tonearm, Cardas Clear Beyond Phono Cable, PS Audio Stellar Phono Stage