2. analog
  3. 155030-33675

AT 33SA or OC9 for 1200 mk5

Been trying to narrow down a cart after my 301 mk2 received damage. I extended my budget to include the 33SA, but have been going back and forth with the Shibata and Micro line stylus.

The PTG/2 was at the top of my list until I started hearing more about the 33SA. However I have spoken with a few people about their bias towards the OC9XSL which then gets debated in a few threads over the OC9 with the micro line stylus.

My phonostage is a Phonomena 2, I have the 12g Zupreme headshell but still have the stock headshell if needed, upgrades include the Cardas rewire.

Smooth top end and controlling sibliance is a high priority, seems most AT carts in this range do this while some are better than others.

What started as what I thought was an easy choice has my head in circles..lol.

I'm not well versed on how cart compliance affects the end result if cart choice is not carefully selected.

All input appreciated.
dyl71

Showing 2 responses by gibsonian

gibsonian
73 posts
 
I have owned both the 33SA and the OC9iii.

The 33SA was a smidge better overall, but with pricing it should be.  I think your arm is a tweener that work with either.   My gut says that the OC9iii might be better with its higher compliance.  I run the Art9 at the moment, but bang for buck in the AT line, is hard to best the OC9iii if you have the arm to match it.

I don't recommend the OC9ii, I don't think it is as balanced sounding as the iii.   If you have  a warm leaning system, maybe it would be a good choice then.
gibsonian
73 posts
 
No lean away from musical at all for the line contact stylus.   Out of the 3 I'd say the line contact versions might be the most musical.   The ART9 and the OC9iii share the same body, are in the same family.   Have not actually heard the 33PTG but am sure it is also good.    Have fun!


@gibsonian What are your thoughts of the micro line vs the shibato? Does the ML start to lean away from musical.. but not implying analytical? These 3 carts, the ART9, OC9/iii, and the 33PTG are looking like you need to own all of them...lol.
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