Cartridge Selection


Hello,

I am the happy owner of a VPI Classic Signature, connected to McIntosh phono preamp (both MM and MC with adjustable capacitance and resistance), preamp and amplifier (preamp is tube, phono preamp and amp are solid state). Speakers are B&W 805 D3. This analog part of my system is used exclusively for listening to jazz.

Presently, I have a Hana SH mounted on the VPI Classic. I like the sound very much, but am thinking I can get more out of my system with a cartridge upgrade. I am considering the Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC Star, Lyra Delos, or Benz Micro Wood SL. Trying to keep the cost to around $2K or less.

I would greatly appreciate any insight from the group.

Thanks.

GAR
gareents

Showing 1 response by whart

That Transfiguration Proteus was supposed to be fabulous- i missed the boat on that. I know some people view third party retippers with disdain, but since the original manufacturer is no longer around, what's the downside if the cartridge isn't working anyway? Soundsmith is first rate, but very slow. I bought a retipped cartridge from Steve Leung at VAS to tide me over; it was well done, cheap and he was fast and helpful.
 I'm using a stone bodied Koetsu on a linear arm and it is a match made in heaven. My Airtight Supreme is waiting for a rebuild. I would buy a Proteus at the right price if it could be retipped by a third party specialist. (I was told the D version was really killer but I doubt you'll find that in the third party retip market. 
Interesting that you think the My Sonic Lab is similar, @mijostyn. I never had one in my system, only the cousins-- the Airtights, which I liked.