MM to MC - Stunned - Please explain the noise difference...

I was SHOCKED that this thread was exactly what I was looking for. I bought new in 1989 a top-line Linn LP-12 package which then was a Valhalla PS, a black Ittok, and the Linn Troika cartridge. My only service was a 2016 Valhalla rebuild (which it didn’t need - yet) and the Troika rebuilt 4(!) times, the first three by Linn and the final by Soundsmith in 2020. It’s time, I think, for a new cartridge and the Ortofon MC X30 was on my short list. Ironically, it’s the same price I paid for the Troika rebuilds done by Linn. Thanks to all for sharing your experiences and reaffirming that I’m on the right track.  The only thing I have to add at this point is the best “tweak” I made to my vinyl setup by far was hoisting the LP-12 up on a properly sited wall shelf.  The increase in resolution and settlement is not subtle and immediately welcome. An unexpected but huge benefit is that now the ‘table is at chest level and I don’t have to bend over or crouch to reach it, giving me much more precise and comfortable access to the Ittok, which I still prefer to hand cue. Thank you, contributors!

@porchlight1 

Glad this was helpful.  Shortly after posting this I made a mistake and broke the cantilever on the MC X30.  Tragic...  I sent it off the VAS and it was fitted with a Boron Cantilever and a Line Contact diamond stylus.  Essentially converting it to the X40.  It is better, but different.  I think the X30 is the sweet spot.

If you are go down the Linn path, My suggestion is to find one with a decent Ittok arm and at least a re-capped Valhalla power supply.  The Basik arm is not good enough for more expensive cartridges.

You mean the Basik arm is not expensive enough.

I run an AT 33PTG/II on my Basik equipped Heybrook TT2. It sounds just wonderful.

@vintageadict 

I did get a very nice Ittok LVII black from the UK and had the PS recapped.  The Basik was definitely not up to the job of handling the MC X30 or X40