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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 esoxhntr

esoxhntr
196 posts
 
You might also consider a Dynavector 17D mkII - same price range as the Benz L2. Hard to lose with either, both are fine cartridges, and I have heard both sounding good with a Spacearm/Spacedeck. Same guy that had this combo mentioned that he preferred both these cartrdiges over the Shelter 501 though his friend preferred the sound of the Shelter, while he preferred the sound of the Dynavector. In both cases, the Benz was the second choice.

I have a 17DmkII and really like it, for what that's all worth...
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