With that budget, you can buy a nice mc cartridge for sure. Personally i’d recommend the Miyajima Shilabe cart at or near that price point. I’ve heard that cart on a Transrotor Fab Bob tt with an SME tonearm & it has lovely rich tone, resolution & has a body made from rare and beautiful African blackwood. It is a widely reviewed cart for good reason. I couldn’t advise you how it compares to the other carts you mentioned as i'm more of a digital guy, though I’d suggest reading the reviews which will give you a good sense of how it performs. Cheers.
Best choice for approx. $3000 cartridge on VPI JMW 10, TNT III
I can get a new (NOS) ZYX Airy 4D, Koetsu Urushi Gold, or Koetsu Urshi Vermillion.
I currently use a ZYX Airy 3 and love it - Warm , 3D, detailed, natural sound.
Are these a big step up in sound??
What is your experience? Please describe any improved sonics.
Are these cartridges too "old in the tooth" compared to the current choices?
System........ JMW 10, TNT III maxed out, Pass Labs amplification, Magnepan 3.6
I currently use a ZYX Airy 3 and love it - Warm , 3D, detailed, natural sound.
Are these a big step up in sound??
What is your experience? Please describe any improved sonics.
Are these cartridges too "old in the tooth" compared to the current choices?
System........ JMW 10, TNT III maxed out, Pass Labs amplification, Magnepan 3.6