2. analog
  3. 161338-73932

Cartridge recommendations under $2500

Since auditioning cartridges is so difficult I’m looking for advise on MC cartridges that should pair well with my equipment. I’m looking for transparency with a bit of warmth and I’m ok buying a low hour used cartridge from a reputable source. My equipment includes:

Linn LP12 with Mose Hercules, Cirkus and Ittok (Effective Mass 11.5g)
ARC PH7 Phono Amp
ARC LS25 MKii Pre Amp
ARC VT200 Power Amp
Raido C1.1 Speakers
Shunyata Alpha Helix Power Cables
Morrow SP7 Speaker Cables
Morrow MA7 Interconnects
Morrow PH7 Phono Cable

Some cartridges I’ve been researching include:
Ortofon Cadenza Black
Ortofon Cadenza Bronze
Lyra Kleos
Koetsu Rosewood
Koetsu Black Goldline
Hana ML

I want to keep the cost under $2,500 and I’m not in a position to upgrade the turntable / tonearm at this time. Oh...and my current cartridge is a Linn Asaka for what it’s worth.

Thanks in advance for your collective advise. I hope this is enough to get the ball rolling.
Ag insider logo xs@2xbstakston
drbuck4
5 posts
 
I run a Cadenza Black on my TTW Momentus  and an old van den Hul 1 on my Goldmund Studio/T3-F. Both are great, and I'm thinking about a new vdH! Both run thru my Pass Labs 25 phono pre!
ferrox
86 posts
 
Benz Micro Wood is also worth considering.
golfmatchplayer
5 posts
 
I have an LP12 with Ittok and use the Ortophon Quintet Black, which works well.  The Cadenza series is a whole other level, but should work well. 
sokogear
1,095 posts
 
I second the van den Hul MC ONE SPECIAL recommendation, although I don't know what "warmth" means. It is very detailed and accurate. It doesn't add or subtract much. Lousy albums sound lousy and great ones sound great.  It's now distributed by VPI, although I would go to a dealer who can set it up. That should improve it's visibility since they will package them with their tables and provide great service..Should be able to get 15-20% discount which will put it well within your price range.
pindac's avatar
pindac
2,864 posts
 
You could visit VAS NY INC Youtube Page and listen to Multiple Needle Drops.
Similar LP Tracks are used and System for the replays.
For myself, after listening to many of the Needle Drops, I thought is was reasonably easy to work out from the replays a Cartridge that has a Transparency.
There might be a Model that catches your Attention, there is also a 
Cadenza Black on there to listen to.   
More to discover