Basis Vector cartridge recommendations


Looking for some advice from the analog experts for a cartridge, running a Basis 2200 signature, Vector 4 tonearm with an Allnic 3000 phono stage, CJ Premier 14, Mac 501 amps and all Kubala- Sosna cabling. I have used an ortofon jubilee for 7 years or so and thinking about a change. short list:

Ortofon cadenza black - slightly concerned it might be too revealing with my Thiels and music preference - classic rock, blues, jazz.....

Ortofon bronze
Transfiguration Proteus
Lyra - never have moved me but limited experience

Any suggestions would be appreciated since auditions in my room are impossible. Thanks.
pops

Showing 5 responses by jmcgrogan2

Hey Jerry,

If you are concerned that the Cadenza Black may be too revealing for your Thiels, you should have the same concern for the Lyra cartridges, IMHO. I owned the Helikon, and it was a bit too revealing for my tastes.

As you know, I am running the Cadenza Bronze, and it is a great match with my Allnic H1201. Transfiguration makes some great cartridges, but the Proteus is in a different price league than the Bronze, I'm pretty sure that would be the way to go if you can afford it. The Phoenix S is also a great cartridge, actually sounded better than the old Orpheus L, which is why Transfiguration had to re-work their line and come out with the Proteus.

One more candidate I would throw in there, just to confuse you more, is the ZYX 4D-X. Best cartridge I had on my Basis 2500 Signature table.

Since you list a $6K cartridge (Proteus) in competition with a $2300 cartridge (Bronze), I'm not really sure if you have a budget or not.
If you don't have a budget you may consider a My Sonic Lab Signature Gold! LOL!

Actually, you may want to look into the MSL line, as A.J. Conti of Basis likes them so much that he became the North American importer for MSL. I know A.J. was smitten with the MSL cartridges before he became the importer. If you are looking at a Proteus, an Eminent or Ultra Eminent may be in your wheelhouse. I have not had an opportunity to hear a MSL cartridge though.

There, how's that for more confusion?

Cheers,
John
I agree, I do not know much about the MSL carts at all outside of the fact that A.J. loves them.

I do agree with Chayro and Ebm, you cannot go wrong with a Transfiguration cartridge. Eminently musical, yet not is a warm, syrupy sweet way, more in an organic, natural way. Of those that you mention in your OP, the Proteus would be my choice.

Keep us posted.
@Pani, thank you for the tip on the Audio Technica ART9. I will have to keep that in mind as a "must try". The price certainly seems reasonable. It sounds like a winner! Thanks again!

@Pops, yes, I know the MSL's are expensive. LOL!
However, you could have the entry level Eminent GL for around $3100, well within your budget.
No worries, congrats on the Proteus, and do keep us posted.
Congrats Jerry! I hope that the new Proteus will bring you many years of joy!

That Basis, Transfiguration, Allnic combination must sound fantastic! Enjoy the music.

Cheers,
John
That's great Pops! Thanks for the update, I'm glad that you are enjoying your Proteus!!