2. analog
  3. 144023-3203

Cartridge Recommendations

I have a Linn/Ekos with Rhea phono stage, feeding Maggies and Manley Mono blocks.  My Shelter 90X has served me well but is nearing retirement............so looking to hear from the community regarding cartridges.  I must confess having had Shure, Benz Micro, Audio Technica, and now what was the top of the line Shelter, I am increasingly intrigued with the Soundmith line, but any feedback/opinion would be appreciated............thank for taking the time to post.
xagwell
jperry
2,437 posts
 

@xagwell 

That is an interesting update. I think Basis, and especially the Vector tonearm is great equipment. I owned Basis including a Vector 3 tonearm in the past

I currently have a MSL cartridge and it is IMO one of the best.

Glad to hear you are happy with your changes

xagwell OP
131 posts
 

Jperry I am overhauling from top to bottom as my system is 15+ years old and I'm retired now so one more time.  I am 95% vinyl so that has been taken care of.  I'm jumping to speakers and there is a battle between Vimberg Mino and Focal Sopra 3.  This is limited to brands I can audition locally but so far I've heard Revel, B&W, Perlisten, Vandersteen, Dynaudio, Sonus Faber and Estelon.  After speakers then pre-amp and well you know.  Thanks for reaching out!

pops
2,273 posts
 

@xagwell exciting times for you!  I also share Jperry’s experience with Basis/vector frontend.  He gave me great advice.  BTW I am 95% vinyl also, good analog tends to do that.

I will be curious to follow your upgrade path.  

fiesta75
1,378 posts
 

Soundsmith is the best cartridge I've heard.

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