Cartridge Opinions - Sorry


Yeah, another dumb "what's your opinion on these cartridges" thread. Back in the late 80's we had dealers where you could listen to the stuff.

So anyhow I have a Linn LP12 with Ittok arm and a 30 year old Audioquest B200L cartridge. I'm running it through the phono stage of a Jeff Rowland Coherence One into a Spectral DMA90 through a set of Kef R300's.

I prefer a little more laid back sound (err on the side of forgiving instead of fatiguing) but I like a lot of upper end detail, precise soundstaging, air, etc.

So far I'm considering an Ortofon Quintet S Black, Hana SL or a Benz wood - something at or below the $1k level.

I'd love to hear any opinions, suggestions, and experiences with those cartridges or others in the price range. I could possibly go higher if there is something out there that really shines for less than $1,500.

Thanks.


klooker

Showing 1 response by mikethehunterguy

Here is my suggestion for the OP. 
https://www.sound-smith.com/cartridges/fixed-coil/carmen-mk-ii
I use the Zephyr MIMC☆ daily.  I LOVE it. Lately I have been on a vintage table kick. Bought some used carts too. I scored a high output VPI Zephyr used, mint! I would take that over any MM cart. $400 perfection! I have an Otello I bought new as a backup.  I would take that as a better choice than almost any sub $1000 cartridge. Really, it is that good for a $400 cartridge. 
https://sound-smith.com/cartridges/fixed-coil/otello