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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 2 responses by jjss49

jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,610 posts
 
a thicker straight stylus sounds better than a skinny bent one  :)

i love my art9 (original) and would not feel the need for more detail, i like its balance and slightly warm nature

then again i run a solid state phono stage.... ymmv
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,610 posts
 
i have the dyna xx2-2 and art 9 - use them on my vpi classic 3 w 3d arm

they are both very nice sounding carts, i would say dyna has a bit more sparkle and drive art 9 a touch more laid back

dyna has real synergy with their own d75 head amp...  great bass from that combo too

of course they both do well with a variety of good phono stages
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