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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 7 responses by sonofjim

sonofjim OP
557 posts
 

Stringreen,

Now that you have your LP working to your liking do you still miss the H as much? It sounded as though at one point you preferred the H.
sonofjim OP
557 posts
 
So many great cartridges and so little chance of hitting the lotto. Ideally I think I'd like to have a spare 10.5i arm wand just to try out different cartridges. Maybe carefully selected used ones would be the way to go. Stringreen let me know when you're ready to unload that LP.
sonofjim OP
557 posts
 
Marty,

I was not aware that the 90x retip was available. Is this at soundsmith.com or something like that? I really do enjoy the 90x and am keeping it. I think it's also very hard to determine when this needs to be done though. I got a second arm wand for my 10.5i so I plan on using the 90x and LP interchangably for some variety. $450 is a good price if it would be good as new. Let me know how it goes if you decide to do it.
sonofjim OP
557 posts
 
Yeah, I agree no one can tell you what you're going to like. I have nothing against expensive cartridges at all. I just wish the cost of trying out the "best" ones was less than $4-5 thousand. I don't expect on line venders have trial programs or ever will. That's why the advise of others sometimes has to suffice.

Thanks for the input guys,

Kent Hall
sonofjim OP
557 posts
 
Thanks to everyone for your input. This thread has opened my eyes to the Benz line of cartridges which I will have to give some consideration.
sonofjim OP
557 posts
 
Update,

I found a good deal on a Benz Ebony LP here on audiogon that hasn't been used or opened per seller's report. I'm sure I'll enjoy this cartridge and, again, thanks for your input.
sonofjim OP
557 posts
 
Warjarrett,
I usually load the 90x at 100 ohms. The LP I currently have at 1000 ohms. Both sound great at these levels. That's where I am now and haven't messed around too much with other settings on the Benz. I seem to recall the 90x seeming bright when loaded higher.
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