Cartridge recommendation for classical listening


I have a wonderful sounding Grado Reference Sonata cartridge which I love.  The only problem is, for many years, I have had a hum problem which I have investigated extensively but never found a solution for.  I know Grados can have this defect, and the extensively modified Rega P3 turntable I use can contribute to the problem
So,  I’m ready to give up and go with another brand of cartridge.
I listen almost exclusively to Classical music.  Can anyone suggest a cartridge under $1000 that sounds good for classical?
rvpiano

Showing 1 response by cakyol

I have a Nagaoka mp500 with an mp300 stylus and also a Goldring 2500.
Usually, the higher the output volts of the cartridge, the slightly better it is for noise,
since you do not have to turn up the volume as much and also amplify the noise.
Classical is "typically" quieter than rock /pop/jazz where this may be important.
I therefore prefer the Goldring 2500 for classical since it "sounds" quieter.
It has an average 6.5mV output as opposed to the 3.5mV on the Nagaoka. This gives about 3-4 dB of better noise figure.

I use these on a Linn Sondek with an SME3009R arm.

I must admit I love the "looks" just as much as the sound :-).