New Cartridge or New Stylus

proper link for the at745xML on Boron for $329. shown above

https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/at-vm745xml

the new ones track at 2.0g; the vintage ones I like track at 1.25g

There is nothing wrong with a cartridge that tracks at 2.0 g.  One that tracks at 1.25 g is not really better.  The key word is track.  The stylus must stay in the groove, i.e. track without rattling around in there.  It is mis-tracking that is the problem.  Seriously, 2.0 g does not wear out records.  

Bill,

True, some say tracking at 3 g is not too much

Primary in my mind is stylus self-wear, after all, 2 g is 60% more force than 1.25g

The forces involved of a stylus in a groove are TREMENDOUS.

Thanks for the AT recommendations. They are triple the cost of items I listed. I’m not in favor of paying trump tariffs for them either. 
 

Additionally I tried an Audio Technica SS445E/U with both the orignal nude stylus and an LP Gear Shibata style stylus - it was too bright. Would the recommendation be a similar sound signature or different?

Replace the stylus!