best cartridge under $500

I'm using a Jolida JD-9 Tube Phono Preamp to a mcintosh c-30 preamp
Jon

i tried a denon 103 because it had high rating but it sounds dull and cheap.
and it was cheap 120.00
jon

can i use a MM or a MC with a jolida jd-9?
do i even need to use a jolida jd-9 with a mcintoch c-30?

as of now i have the jd9 connected to my aux on the c30. on the jd9 it connects to low output (not hi output) do i need to remove the small cover plate and mess with the impedance switches and the voltage gain switches?

also it would be great!!!!! if i can get rid of the jd9. so if i go with the c-30 i have to stay with an MM. whats the diffenenc between a MM and a MM/MI

sooo what does the jd9 buy me?

thanks
jon