Cartridge options going forward


As much as I hate to admit it, my Lyra Etna is getting a little long in the tooth. I really look forward to listening to music with this cartridge but the amount of money they get for it has reached the point where I want to consider a more fiscally responsible alternative. I have owned a Kleos and Skala before the Etna and while the Kleos is good, it is not an Etna.  Any ideas?
mtwilke

Showing 5 responses by mtwilke

Luxman PD171 turntable, Jelco TK850S tonearm, Cardas Clear Beyond Phono Cable, PS Audio Stellar Phono Stage
I have owned Lyra for the last 10 years or so, Skala (retipped once by soundsmith), Kleos and most recently the Etna. I did try a Soundsmith Sussuro but did not keep it.  Would like to find something under 5000. Retipping or rebuilding is a long process and I don't want to be without. I am not quite at the replacement/rebuild point yet.Just trying to get a feel for what might be an alternative. That said a legit under 5000 Etna alternative may be hard to come up with.
Out of curiosity what would be an appropriate analogue rig for the Etna in your opinion?
What are some examples of a "current mode" phono amp? I believe my PS Audio Stellar phono amp has enough gain for very low output cartridges. It is as good as Fremer's review states and does not appear to be overmatched by the Etna.I have taken mijostyn's advice and ordered the Ortofon Winfield Ti cartridge. I will more than likely send the Etna back to Lyra to be rebuilt/upgraded to the Lambda design standard output when the time comes. It will be interesting to compare the two.The low output Audio Technica cartridge that Raul recommended is back ordered to January. I appreciate everyone's collective experience and input. Fiscal responsibility is a challenge in this hobby. ; )