Cartridge downgrade?


I have been using a Shelter 90x with my SSM for several years happily but it's getting on in age and I've been contemplating what to replace it with when it's time. My table has been upgraded to reference status(super platter, mini feet, 10.5i arm, rim drive). I've thought about many of the likely suspects that might go with this combo(Lyra Titan vs. Skala, Shelter Harmony vs. 9000, Air Tight PC-1, Dynavector XV-1s) I wonder though if I'm just assuming these higher level cartridges are better than mid range ones. In particular, I wonder if I should try out VPI's version of the Dynavector 20x and save $3-4 thousand. Just wondered if anyone has tried a similar so called "down grade" and been happy. Is it possible that these high priced cartridges are overrated or a I just being cheap?
sonofjim

Showing 2 responses by marty_t

www.sound-smith.com Do a search, lots of good comments. Peter replaces the stylus with a line contact stylus.
I have the same situation with my 90X. I am thinking of having a retip job by Soundsmith at $450, I have heard good things about their work. After having two Benz Rubies I would prefer a retipped 90X.