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AT-ART9XI Cartridge - Reduced Compliance

Hi folks, I'm leaning toward the AT-ART9 cartridge for my SME V.  The new version - the ART9XI - has a thicker solid boron stylus (was .26mm, now .28mm) and slightly lower compliance (was 18, now 15 x10-6).

The newer version costs $300 more ($1,300 v. $1,000).  I'm inclined to buy the old one.  Any opinions?  (Please keep in mind I bought my SME V 30 years ago when it was $2k even.)  Thanks in advance!
keegiam

Showing 1 response by hondo

hondo's avatar
hondo
22 posts
 
I have the ART9XI, ART9XA, and older ART9 cartridges.  In my main system I have two turntables one with the XA and other with the XI.

My ART9 is warmer sounding than the newer  ART9XI.  I prefer the ART9XI over the ART9.  

Classical music accounts for the majority of my listening.  The clarity of the ART9XA makes it my classical music favorite.

If I arm going to listen to some blues, then it is the ART9XI.
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