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Best Cartridge for my system, MC or MM ??

Hi, this is my first post.
My set up is:

Mcintosh Mc275
Mcintosh C220
Totem Hawk speakers
Marantz TT15S1 table.

I had a Clear Audio Virtuoso and am considering switching to a Dynavector 10x5.

I was pleased with the sound but was told the Dynavector would be worlds apart.

After seeing mixed reviews on both cartridges, what is your opinion on what would be best suited for my setup?

I listen to all rock, some jazz, some psych, etc..
blacknoise
czarivey
5,721 posts
 
The carts are of the same class of performance and one may prefer one over the other. The most important point that cartridge matches arm and table so "2 worlds apart" is totally irrelevant.
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
I would check the specs on your phono pre.If your using the stock McIntosh you will most likely only be able to use MM or high output MC. 4.0 mv or better ,if I recall correctly.So if needed you can always purchase a external phono preamp so you can use a wider range of cartridges.Also, matching the arm with the cartridge compliance is paramount.
wc65mustang
524 posts
 
Bad info on the 10X5 being worlds apart from the Virtuoso.
It is not.
Give consideration to an Audio Technica AT-150MLX. It plays far beyond its' price and both of the cartridges mentioned here.
harold-not-the-barrel
895 posts
 
You can also consider an Audio-Technica AT-160ML or even AT170-ML/OCC, probably not cheap second hand but you don´t have to regret ;
Also SHURE ML-140HE won´t be disappointing.
Anyway, a high compliant & high out put voltage cartridge.
geoch's avatar
geoch
354 posts
 
I would advise for the Ortofon 2m Black for live reproduction.
For about the third price: the JVC Z1S together with the amazing "Grey JICO SAS" suspension-cantilever-stylus.
Do not care about MCs.
Only if you have the will to buy a great step-up & a top quality LOMC.
Only cartridges like the VDH Colibri, Clearaudio Titanium and few others of top $$$ range can go beyond the MM limits!
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