2. analog
  3. 1104710066

Advice needed, MC cartridge for SpaceArm?

I own a Nottingham Spacedeck/Spacearm along with a ARC PH2 phono preamp and Clearaudio Virtuoso cartridge.

I have been most satisfied with the above setup for about a 1 and 1/2 years, rarely listening to CDs anymore. This is my first vinyl setup in 20 years. Now, I have come down with upgraditis. (uh oh)

Have decided to upgrade the PH2 to ARC's new PH5 phono preamp. This will allow me to try a MC cartridge for the first time. Question is, which one? My system is heavy in tubes, tubed PreAmp (Ref 1) and tubed monoblock amps (Rogue M120s Magnum) Speakers are Soundlab electrostats.

I am leaning towards the Shelters 501 or 901 based on internet research but have not ruled anything out. My listening preferences are Classical / Orchestral first. Behind that would be Jazz/Country/rock/pop / whatever all equally weighted. Any ideas as to the MC cartridge that is the best choice? Would like to keep it under 1500.00 It is unlikely that I will be able to audition most cartridges where I live.
tedvan

Showing 1 response by dougdeacon

dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
I have a friend with a Space Deck and Space Arm. He wanted something more neutral than his Grado and more resolving than his Denon.

I sent him my Shelter 901 to try (that offer is open to all A'gon members by the way, just email me). But I also told him I thought a medium compliance cartridge would be a better match, and that for his musical tastes (classical) and sonic preferences (neutrality) a ZYX would be hard to beat.

He bought a ZYX R100 Fuji and is very pleased. It outperformed the Shelter 901 on his rig, as it does on mine.

Dynavector and Lyra should also be suitable matches for a Space Arm. I haven't heard them so can't offer any comparison.
More to discover