Save your money and buy a Grado Reference high output version. If you're in no hurry you'll find a great deal on one sooner or later on Audiogon. You will be thrilled with this cartridge. I use a low ouput version (1mV)on my Well Tempered Reference, which replaced a Van den Hul Grasshopper Gold. I use an EAR phono preamp running into an Audible Illusions 3A. If I had the 4mV version that I'm recommending to you I would not even need the EAR as the phono stage on the AI is excellent, just not quite enough gain for 1mV. I imagine the Lyra would be a bit better than the Grado, but as stated by Twl above, your present turntable/arm combo may not do it the justice it deserves. My Well Tempered would, but the Grado is such a good match I don't see the point in spending the extra money. The Grados are that good!
Analogue Upgrade Help.
I have a VPI MK4/SME-309 using a Cary SLP98P (moving magnet) preamp. I want to upgrade to a Lyra Helikon (even an SL if that makes sense).
Should I have the Cary converted to MC or should I purchase an AcousTech PH-1, EAR or other comparably priced phono pre-amp.
Do these phono preamp selections preclude the Helikon SL cartridge model selection.
Does my TT/Arm combination preclude the Lyra Helikon or the SL upgrade from a practical perspective.
Should I have the Cary converted to MC or should I purchase an AcousTech PH-1, EAR or other comparably priced phono pre-amp.
Do these phono preamp selections preclude the Helikon SL cartridge model selection.
Does my TT/Arm combination preclude the Lyra Helikon or the SL upgrade from a practical perspective.