New Cartridge or New Stylus

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!

In your budget, I might try this

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650258731-empire-999-tex-cartridge-and-stylus/

NOS and/or replacement stylus are available

https://www.lpgear.com/product/EMS0999TEXERD.html

https://www.lpgear.com/product/EMPS0999TEX.html

here’s one with a new aftermarket stylus, same price

https://reverb.com/item/85452396-70-s-empire-90ee-x-turntable-phono-cartridge-excellent-condition-with-brand-new-80-s-fidelitone-elliptical-diamond-stylus-90-ee-x?utm_source=aw&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hifishark.com&sv1=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=536903&awc=67144_1762008288_cefcedb8698fa87337f892cfdc1518d1