Best performing cartridge under $500.00?

Among cartridges costing less than $500 (MSRP), there are only two that I personally recommend:
1. The Grado Sonata;
2. The Shure V15VxMR.

Both cartridges have relatively "warm" yet detailed sound with good soundstaging. The one "downside" to the Grado is that is is susceptible to picking up hum from the motors of some turntables, so a degree of caution in matching is warranted. The Shure V15VxMR rarely gets the kudos it deserves from audiophiles, but it's a fine cartridge and arguably the best value of any cartridge in its general price bracket. It also has the best tracking ability of any cartridge selling for less than $750.

Denon 103R

Haven't heard the Grado Sonata, but it definitely blows away the Shure.

Only catch is you have to buy a step-up transformer with the Denon. But it won't be a problem since the Denon is well under $500.

I'd also include the Grado Platinum at $300, if you want to be well under the $500 mark. Same basic strengths as the Sonata but less detail.

I agree the Denon DL103R is the best that I've experienced under $500. A good higher mass tonearm with good bearings is a must. Needs at least 65db gain in the phono stage.