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Cartridge recommendation around $2k?

I'm ready to invest in a new cartridge having become tired of the quirks of my Decca Super Gold. Previously I've owned a Delos and I'm currently testing out a highly upgraded DL103R. Really like vocals and strings with the DL103 but dynamics and soundstaging are lacking. I listen to all kinds of music, except rock. Lots of jazz and blues but also tons of psych and hip hop/electronica. Soundtracks and Latin music too. Nothing dense though, if that makes sense. The Delos was a good cartridge at it's original release price, less so at $2,000. Arm is a unipivot, VPI Fatboy. Anyone have a somewhat versatile cartridge to recommend?
dhcod

Showing 6 responses by dhcod

dhcod OP
710 posts
 
Yeah, that's the other thing, and I think you are confirming it. Maybe I just need to try the Auditorium 23 SUT before I venture into new cartridges? I've been trying to avoid it because of aesthetic issues. I'm really tight on space and another component, even a small one, is tricky.

dhcod OP
710 posts
 
Yes, and I don't think he ended up keeping the Zephyr, or at least I know of someone who didn't... not sure it's the same person. I only have 58db of gain so I'm on the outside looking in on the ATs although maybe it's worth a try- but if I'm looking for dynamics, that's certainly not the way to get them.

Thanks for the Kiseki Blue suggestion. I'll check that one out.
dhcod OP
710 posts
 
@rdk777 What’s your phono preamp? That’s my dream arm, by the way. Always looking for deals but they never pop up! My DL103 is an Ana Mighty Rebuilt. I'm really thinking my lack of gain is the issue now.
dhcod OP
710 posts
 
Hmm, I just read that .5 is good down to 56db so I'm guessing that the XI and the Blue would work now that I'm researching it more carefully. It also depends on the cleanliness of the gain in the preamp and I'm pretty good there. Maybe I'll just give the XI a try since it's so beloved.
dhcod OP
710 posts
 
@Dover- I'm actually very happy with the arm. No bass issues. I've mounted cartridges I can't afford on it and I was blown away by how balanced and transparent this arm sounds compared to many high priced arms I've used in the past. People are squeamish about Uni's for some reason. I've always preferred them. We all hear differently.

Thanks for the advice re: matching with the Lamm
dhcod OP
710 posts
 
I am aware of that seller. I was also looking at the Cadenza Black he had. 
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