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Cart for Basis Debut/Graham?

I just got a good deal on a used Basis Debut Gold Mk III table with Graham 1.5t/c arm. Now I must decide on the cartridge.

Since I stretched my budget to acquire the Basis, I'm trying to find a cartridge that I can happily live with for the next year or so until I get familiar with the set-up and decide to upgrade the cart, arm or both. My budget is probably $1k and under, new or used.

Does anyone have practical experience matching the Graham to a cartridge in this price range?

I think the Graham is considered a medium-mass tonearm, and ideally should be matched to a medium or low compliance cartridge. After setting the table up yesterday, we installed a new Shure V15VxMR cart. While it sounds good, I think it's somewhat darker sounding than I'd like. Bass is not quite as good as it was when I was using an older Denon direct-drive table with Denon 301 cart.

I'm considering trying a Denon 103R, Dynavector 17D2MKII or Shelter 501? Any opinions/suggestions?

Thanks.
kenl

Showing 2 responses by ngeorge

ngeorge
57 posts
 
I would, at the least, get a Shelter 501, a decent cartridge that would allow you to have fun with your system until you can afford (per your post) something better down the round. What surprises me, though, is why your initial impression was not more positive considering the table and arm you have.

Hope it's not the after effects of 'buyer's remorse.'

Regards,
George
ngeorge
57 posts
 
Hi Kenl,

Stick with your original plan: buy a good cartridge for the meantime and enjoy the purchase before enbarking on a costly journey to buy more stuff like a preamp, etc. - that's not how it works!

Give A.J. Conti a call at Basis and ask him what cartridge would be a good fit, period.

No need to completely revamp your system - it's very good as is. (Or go one step at a time.)

George
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