1. Home
  2. analog
  3. 195968-121814

Recommended a highly resolving cartridge

Hi all, all tube system that is warm with a good midrange presence inherently. I’m looking for a cartridge that offers high detail / resolution and wide / deep soundstage. This is on a stock SL-1200G TT. On a side note, if anyone has experience “upgrading” the stock tonearm on a G please chime in. I’ve read conflicting reports of the merits of such a move, and while I’m very happy with the tone of my TT and am not looking to move off of it, I am curious about a tonearm swap (must allow for headshell swapping). 

fastricky
fastricky OP
147 posts
 

@pindac Certainly valid POV, my hope is the 1000x portrays some differences from the ART20. However I had considered this topic before pulling the trigger on the 1000x: what would I like to hear differently from the ART20? I couldn’t think of anything truthfully! Having lived with carts that offer a more romantic and laid back presentation (Koetsu, Grado) I know that isn’t for me. I also know a cart that would be super analytical to the detriment of musical cohesion and fatigue-free listening would also not be up my street. I just plain love what the ART20 does so much if the 1000x just ups that direction I’m good. I will certainly post my thoughts once the cartridge arrives in a week or so (the dealer needs to order from AT). 

theophile's avatar
theophile
410 posts
 

I for one will be looking forward for your impressions of the 1000x ricky.

fastricky OP
147 posts
 

OK I received the 1000x today and mounted it immediately onto a tried and proven Korf ceramic headshell. I've only put @ 3 hrs on the cart tonight but let me cut to the chase - it is sensational. I mean the finest cart I've ever experienced. And surprisingly different to the ART20, though there are plenty of similarities too. I'm going to gather my thoughts over some more hours of listening and start a new thread regarding this work of art, folks far and wide need to know about this cartridge! 

larryi
4,590 posts
 

I think the ART1000x is a very good cartridge.  While it does not have the warmth of the top end Koetsu cartridges, I know two Koetsu fans that also like this cartridge a lot--it is smooth, relaxed sounding (not edgy) while not stinting on dynamics and liveliness.  If I were in the market for a new cartridge, this is the one I would pick. 

I have heard the ART20 in a system I was not familiar with, but, I liked the sound too--very lively yet not overly edgy sounding.   

westcoastaudiophile
819 posts
 

@fastricky 

for your all tube system I would recommend to try:

- NOS or good AT-24 (25) for Jazz/Classic tracks. These carts have much lower than others inductance, therefore can drive 5..10ft phono cable w/o problems.

- NOS or good AT-ML170/180 for any tunes. Most transparent, fatigue free music enjoyment guaranteed! 

The reason for MM suggestions is a lower than MC track-force, thus longer stylus and vinyl life. 

More to discover