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Low Output MC recommendations?

Hello all,

I'm completely enamored with the sound of my Denon DL 304 Mk II, and have had no desire to replace it for the last nearly 3 years. I keep wondering about upgrading, but since Denon doesn't make anything higher up, what low-output MC Cartridges can everyone recommend? I'd like to keep the same sound signature, just "more" of everything.

I've experimented with 4 different phono stages, and settled on one that provides maximum flexibility, and is a synergetic match with the Denon (and the rest of my system).
FWIW, the 'table is a hot-rodded Project Classic. Amp is the Kinki Studio EX-M1+ and the speakers are Wharfedale Linton Heritage 85.

My listening is %70 Classical, %10 Jazz, %10 Soundtracks, and %10 Rock/ambient.

Thanks in advance!

dcdavis1978
vinylzone
288 posts
 

Lyra if you can afford one, Hana or AT at lower price points.

edgyhassle's avatar
edgyhassle
83 posts
 

Might wanna check out Soundsmith. Great re-tipping prices for down the road and out-the-door fairly reasonable for what you get.

wolf_garcia
6,592 posts
 

Ortofon Quintet...I own a red and a blue. Simply great sounding MCs.

dover
2,173 posts
 

@dcdavis1978 

The tonearm on the Project Classic is simply not good enough for a low compliance moving coil. You would be better off saving for a better turntable.

If you need a new cartridge - make sure it is not low compliance.

The lower end Van den Hul MC cartridges are more medium compliance as are some of the Dynavectors. The Van den Hul are superb on classical music - beautifully balanced.

clearthinker's avatar
clearthinker
1,582 posts
 

@dcdavis1978 

You don't tell us your price point.

Must look at Ortofons. Various pricings. I have both heir top models Anna (hi mass arms) and Verismo (lo mass) and both are superb.  Anna best for rock and big programmes, Verismo for voices, chamber music but is a good all-rounder.

Also van den Hul.  I have four, at various price points.

 

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