need cartridge suggestion


I am putting a system together and need some suggestions for a good moving coil cartridge for under $1500 (USD) to go with my Linn Sondek LP12 turntable with the Linn EKOS tonearm. My phono preamplifier is a Parasound Zphono XRM. I like listening to classical music almost exclusively. I have stacked Quad ESL 57 speakers driven by two tube monoblock ampliers and a tube preamplifier. All suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you
Mark Cooperstein
markcooperstein
I studied the heck out of MC, learned and selected signal strength and impedance along with a vintage SUT to continue to use my vintage tube MM phono input.

I would verify with Parasound befor buying, what is best signal strength and cartridge coil impedance for it's MC input.

You also have the option of using an external SUT and going into the Parasound's MM input if you find an MC not ideal for Parasound's MC input.

I love my first MC cartridge, I picked the Audio Technica AT33?PTG/2.

https://www.audio-technica.com/en-ca/cartridges/line-series/at33-series/at33ptg-2

seems recent price increase, now $900. on AT's site.

I bought mine on eBay, new $550 in usa, takes returns. this seller says last one

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Audio-Technica-AT33PTG2-Microlinear-Moving-Coil-Cartridge-Free-2-Day-Shippi...

New on eBay, from Japan, takes returns, $420.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/audio-technica-MC-stereo-cartridge-AT33PTG-2-Japan-NEW/203179345582?hash=it...


DV Karat is good, but 17D2 was superseded by 17D3 many years ago and now 17D3 is superseded by 17DX, which you can buy NOS with confidence. All three are fine cartridges at a reasonable price, except I guess the 17DX is bumped up in price.
I'd suggest the Ortofon Quintet Black, particularly since you almost only listen to classical music. It'll produce neutral detailed sound and falls within your budget. The Quintet Bronze (slightly less expensive) and Cadenza Red (a bit more expensive) probably won't match what you're looking for quite as much.
second recommendation on dyna's - they are excellent

shelter and benz too...