2. analog
  3. 1096922170

$800 Cartridge Shootout and Upgrade Path


I am putting together an analog system, starting with the cartridge. I like a well-balanced sound with a slightly lush midrange and excellent extension at the frequency extremes. The cartridge should be a reasonably good tracker. Here are my choices:

1. Dynavector Karat 17D MkII
2. Shelter 501
3. Sumiko Black Bird
4. Grado Statement Master
5. Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood

Which one comes closest to my wish list? Which one would you choose?

Here are the upgrade cartridges to the above list, one of which would be purchased later:

1. Shelter 901
2. Benz Micro L2
3. Grado Statement Reference
4. Koetsu Black

Which one comes closest to my wish list? Which one would you choose?

Now, which turntable/tonearm combination (for new equipment up to $4,500) would you choose to handle a cartridge from the first group and the upgrade cartridge from the second group?

Any help you can provide is greatly welcomed. Thanks!
artar1
oakiris
206 posts
 
Thanks for the link, Artar.
letch
109 posts
 
Hey Artar!

Glad to have you back. Interesting purchase, I have heard great things about the Moerch arm. My X-mas was uneventful, I worked. I went to Detroit the week before and a record store that I used to go to in Ann Arbor and thought long gone was actually bought by someone else. I found some LP's of course, Furtwangler playing Wagner, Henze on DG and Wergo. Some Beethoven quartets etc etc. I spent a buncha money on records while there. I didn't miss leaving the 5 degree weather to a return to 40 degree warmth.

On the 25th I fly to Colorado. I just got the tix and will contact the guys tonight (Chris and Thom at Teres and Galibier respectively) and start to lay down the plan. I'm definitely up for the Schroeder Model 2. Not sure what table yet. If a Galibier, the cheapest model with the pvc platter. If the Teres then probably the 255. Either way I can't lose!

As for the preamp. I'm not unhappy with the Pass, I'm just feeling the audiofool money pinch and have been desirious of upgrading my sources. I have a Golden Tube Audio preamp that is coming back from Parts Connexion after being modded. If it sounds as sweet as I think it will then it might make sense for me to sell the Pass and put the money into a CD player. Or just to pay for the table and tonearm.
The Pass is an expensive unit but definitely a world class pre. If it still blows away the GTA then I will sell the other though it won't bring nearly as much money. I also want to send my Sonic Frontiers phono pre to Parts Connexion for modding and this all ain't cheap!

This high end is killing me financially. I need a higher paying job.

Artar, glad that you're back and rested. After Denver, in March, I'm heading out to New York and Philadelphia for some serious art tourism. Unfortunately I'll doubt I'll get much rest but I'll get refueled with inspiration and probably find a few LP's out there.

Let us know when you get your gear. I'm sure we're all curious as to what you think.
Chris
hlking1b68e
1 posts
 
i have a denon L59 turn table, what needle/cartridge will work best
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