broken dreams - new cartridge help please!


I need help on selecting a replacement MC cartridge. Two years ago I put together my first serious vinyl system:

- Transfiguration Axia S MC cartridge
- VPI Scout 2 with upgraded heavy platter and JMW 10 tonearm
- EAR 83P preamp
- Line Magnetic LM-211 IA tube amp
- Legacy Studio HD Monitor speakers

Note I listed the cartridge first - I did a lot of research and perhaps spent an inordinate amount on it, but I got an amazing deal from a EU vendor from Audigon ($1100US - new in box). Loved the set up! Sound was better than I thought possible :-)

Now the sad part - last week my house cleaner snapped the cantilever off while dusting :-(. I had told her to leave the stereo to me to dust, but I guess the desire to clean what I hadn't for some time got the better of her. As the 10 JMW sticks out a bit from the VPI base and the acrylic dust cover no longer fits, it was exposed. Unfortunately, the plastic cantilever guard was such a difficult fit that I was more afraid of snapping the cantilever off trying to put it on and take off that I never used it.

I checked with Needle Doctor about replacing but as I suspected they cannot. I have emailed Immutable/Transfiguration but no response :-(

Sorry for the long preamble, but I had to commiserate with some one who might feel for me (my wife doesn't get it- she is happy listening to an Amazon Echo Plus).

Checking current prices on the Axia reveal $2450 new, $1600 used. Currently cannot afford that. I need to come in under $1000. Need some help from you more experienced audiophiles out there! My listening tastes are a bit eclectic, but center on rock and blues. Want to stick with a low output MC.

Here are some that I have been considering:
- Ortofon Quintet Black S MC
- Audio-Technica AT33Sa
- Dynavector 20X2L
- Sumiko Blackbird Low MC

I know some of these may retail over $1k, but I am not adverse to a low hour used cartridge or scouring the net for good deals.

Any help on the above options or alternatives would be very much appreciated :-)

Thanks, Rick.
rykk999
The Audio-Technica VM540ML has an easy to use stylus guard that flips up when you’re playing a record. 
Thanks all for the info - I will definitely contact the folks mentioned about repairing. I know the Axia does use boron cantilever. Yes, they are Japanese - I may try contacting them again as well. I will report back.

I need to find a way to ensure it doesn't happen again... any ideas welcome!

Rick. 
You might want to see if VAS (Steven Leung) can repair it.  The thread immediately above this one is all about Steve and very positive.

I’m sure Soundsmith, Vas or one of the other cartridge repair services will be able to help you out. I had my Sumiko Blue Point 3 done and it was better than new. Lots cheaper than buying new.
ElusiveDisc.com lists "$1449.99" for Re-Tip/Exchange on a Transfiguration Axia. Sounds like a decent option; not sure why Needledoctor couldn’t help more. Give the other guys a call and see what they say. They’re getting some 40% cut for simply passing along an 8 oz package, so you’d think they would be eager to help.

I’d save a bit longer and get what you want rather than potentially settling for a lesser $1K cartridge. I’m also of the opinion that if you love a cartridge that needs work, keep it original by only having work done by the manufacturer. Otherwise get a different cartridge, and sell the body to someone who will get the work done wherever they like.

Isn’t Transfiguration Japanese? Sometimes you can search & import cartridges directly from Japan for greatly discounted prices. Varies a lot by brand, though.

I’ve heard so many stories like yours over the years. We really need a vinyl-junkie PSA: have your cartridges LOCKED away when the cleaning lady comes. It’s not enough simply to tell them to stay away from the audio gear. It’s NEVER enough! They must be physically restricted from coming into contact with your precious cartridge.
Have Andy Kim at phonocartridgeretipping.com or Steve Leung at VAS Audio quote you a retip with a new boron cantilever and microridge or line contact stylus. 

Send it to either of them and you'll probably have it back within a couple of weeks and it will likely sound considerably better than any of the alternative choices you've listed above. 
Try moving magnet, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the performance and sound quality and value. Audio-Technica VM540ML is my current favorite. At $250 it’s a massive bargain.