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Cartridge for SME IV.V

Attention SME arm people - I'm looking for an upgrade path for my SME 20/2A table, and would love to hear what cartridge characteristics make for a good match with the SME IV.V arm. I am currently using a Dynavector 17DmkII which performs reasonably well, but I imagine the arm and table could handle a better cartridge. Any thoughts?
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Showing 2 responses by nsgarch

nsgarch's avatar
nsgarch
2,524 posts
 
The IV.V has ribbon internal wiring (both for high conductivity and minimal bearing interference) and was designed specifically for MC cartridges -- especially of the low output variety (although certainly not exclusively.)

Very high end Koetsu, Transfiguration, ZYX, and van den Hul would all be good choices. And don't forget great tonearm cables. The vdH cable that comes with the arm is crap.
nsgarch's avatar
nsgarch
2,524 posts
 
Eso -- I don't know the MSRP for a Dominus phono, a Venustas is $1800. However they are both available new for the following prices:

Venustas-$1150.00
Dominus w/Ferox-$3300.00

I'm using a Venustas with my SME V / Tranny W, and the sound is quite spectacular. I'd like to hear a Dominus just to see what (if anything) I'm missing, but up til now, the Venustas is the best I've ever heard.
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