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Best MC cart for Thorens TP16 MK1?

I'm sick of reading through so many different forums, my eyes are bugging out and I can't decide. So I'm just going to put it out there and see what y'all think. I've never had a moving coil cart before and I really want to install one on my Thorens TD-160 with original TP16 arm (16.5g) and stock TP60 headshell. I've gone through all the math around this, but now I need to hear from folks who are ACTUALLY running an MC cart on the same setup as mine (or have in the past), or at least heard such a setup.

I'm tempted by DL-103, but some feel it's too low in compliance for the arm, and I'd have to add weight most likely. Others that mathematically might fit the bill: Sumiko Blue Point No. 3, Hana EL, Benz Micro Gold, Ortofon Quintet Blue, and Audio Technica AT33PTG/2.

I'm willing to spend up to $700. What friggin MC cart would sing on this arm without fussing with weights? I can't seem to find a straight answer. I thank you all in advance.
hoytis

Showing 2 responses by hoytis

hoytis OP
85 posts
 
Thanks all. Appreciate the responses and reviews. Very helpful. For those that asked, I'll most likely be running the cart through a NAD 106 preamp that has a MM/MC stage switch. I also have a Vincent PHO-701 tube preamp (with DIP switches) in another setup that also has a MC option. I plan to keep the cart on a separate second TP 60 headshell for easy swapping.
hoytis OP
85 posts
 
Just closing the loop here for future info. Again, I have a Thorens TD-160 with TP16 MK1 tonearm. I ended up purchasing a VAS Ebony 103 moving coil cartridge. It's essentially a DL-103 with the same compliance, but it's much heavier due the wood body, really enhancing the low end. The added weight I think makes it a better fit for the TP16 than the stock 103. Plus it comes with a refined nude hyper elliptical stylus.

But please note that the stock TP60 headshell will not work with this cartridge because that headshell can only mount carts from the bottom. I had already purchased a second fabricated TP60 headshell from Pat's Audio online for easier switching of carts, and thankfully this headshell allows for top mounting.

I've only been spinning for a few hours but it sounds incredible. Details jump out, bass is super tight, so much clarity yet retaining warmth. I imagine it will only get better as it breaks in. Couldn't be happier.
Thanks to all of you who offered opinions and advice. It truly helps.
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