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Cartridge Recommendations for SME V Arm

I have a VPI TNT Jr. turntable with an SME V arm. My current cartridge is an older Sumiko SHO feeding an Audio Research PH3 phono preamp in turn into a BAT VK5i preamp and Revel Gem or Revel F208 speakers driven by a BAT VK 6200 6 channel amp. I'd like to upgrade my cartridge and would like to keep the cost below no more than around $3000. I am intrigued by the Hana line and the cheaper Lyra's, Dynavectors , Ortofons, etc. but not really sure where to start. I primarily listen to symphonic classical, 60's and 70's rock, sound tracks and some jazz. Lots to unpack there. Any suggestions to where I should start? Thanks for your thoughts!

me7

Showing 1 response by dover

dover
2,337 posts
 

A glider is a nicer sounding cartridge  than a frog. Much more fun to listen to. 

You must have had a dud - I used to sell both - the VDH Frog is much more nuanced than the Benz Glider.

+1 SoundSmith. I have a Paua mk II on my SME V.

Fully concur, I compared a Soundsmith Paua, Lyra Helikon SL & Koetsu Rosewood in the same system - the Paua was easily the best match and sounded superb on the SME V. 

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