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Time for a new MM cartridge

My Grado The Reference cartridge is up to almost 500 hours and is beginning to sound a bit tired. I used a restored Thorens TD-125mkII table fitted with a SME 3009 II Improved w/ removable headshell. I used the onboard MM phono stage of my Yamaha A-S2200 integrated.

Have previously run a Grado Ref Platinum and Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge. I'm considering Nagaoka MP-200 or MP-300, AT VM760SLC, Ortofon 2M Bronze. Anyone here have experience with those cartridges and the SME arm? Any other recommendations?

 

I listen to classic rock, blues, jazz, metal and a bit of outlaw country.

128x128hedgehog
lewm
12,610 posts
 

I mentioned the MI type, because I personally have a predilection for that type, although I own and enjoy cartridges of all 3 major types.  On the other hand, the last Grado I owned was a TLZ, back in the 80s, which I enjoyed for many years as my only cartridge.

jim5559
604 posts
 

mr m. 

 

 

 

the Nag 200 is superb in any price range .

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,258 posts
 

The AT VM760sLC is an excellent choice for your arm. The Goldring 1042 would be another. The Nags are on the stiff side for the SME. My favorite MM is the Clearaudio Charisma. I do not like the Grados and Soundsmiths until you get to the more expensive versions. IMHO the stylus is king. The AT and the Goldring have top shelf styluses you do not see in other cartridges.

russ69's avatar
russ69
3,360 posts
 

You have a nice cart, you can always have it rebuilt. 

hedgehog's avatar
hedgehog OP
183 posts
 

Thanks, mijostyn, arm compatibility is something I wanted to address. 
 

I will probably have The Reference retipped once I have a replacement. It was at or near the top of their line at the time. 

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