Why not look for a gently used Denon 103. I've had great luck picking up low hr cartridges at about half the price of new.
Best $250 max phono Cart
G'day mates -
I'm loaning a friend my old turntable/amp (Nottingham Analogue Horizon, Rega tonearm, Rega Brio integrated amp with built-in phono). He'll need to purchase a cartridge but does not want to spend more than $250. He'll be listening to mostly rock & pop 60's-90's. I also have an Auditorium 23 SUT intended for the Denon 103, but that $350 for a new Denon 103 price tag is too steep for him. I see the Audio-Technica VM540ML ($249) as a top seller on Needle Doctor, but I have not heard it. I'm curious if you have recommendations at this price range? Or, should I just tell him to bite the bullet and get a denon 103/R? Thanks in advance!
I'm loaning a friend my old turntable/amp (Nottingham Analogue Horizon, Rega tonearm, Rega Brio integrated amp with built-in phono). He'll need to purchase a cartridge but does not want to spend more than $250. He'll be listening to mostly rock & pop 60's-90's. I also have an Auditorium 23 SUT intended for the Denon 103, but that $350 for a new Denon 103 price tag is too steep for him. I see the Audio-Technica VM540ML ($249) as a top seller on Needle Doctor, but I have not heard it. I'm curious if you have recommendations at this price range? Or, should I just tell him to bite the bullet and get a denon 103/R? Thanks in advance!