Cartridge help: Ortofon Cadenza vs. Soundsmith Paua


I recently ordered a VPI Avenger with a 12" 3d arm and need help choosing between the Ortofon Cadenza (bronze or black, though I'd lean toward the bronze because it is the warmer of the two) vs the Soundsmith Paua.  My preferences are for a sound that is not overly detailed, but smooth through entire range, warmer side of neutral, wonderful midrange, and not overly dynamic, lively, detailed where listening fatigue can set in.  

I've previously had a VPI Prime turntable and Ortofon Quintet Black.  It certainly wasn't bad but have been hearing wonderful things about Soundsmith.  My phono stage is the Zesto Andros 1.2, so loading and gain should not be an issue with either.  
djfst

Showing 4 responses by stringreen

Why in the world would you put a "price point" cartridge on an Avenger with the 3D arm.  You're wasting the performance level. If you haven't the funds now...start saving and do it right.
That's right.....  The top cartridges are clearly steps up....  You should be thinking Lyra Atlas, Etna, Ortofon Anna, et al.  (I would suppose the rest of your stuff is up to it as well)
another cartridge option is the Ortofon Winfield....a lot of cartridge for about 3000 dollars.   Talk to Harry about it....