2. analog
  3. 193371-34300

Cartridge - sweet spot on the cost/sound curve?

I think my Sumiko Blue point 2 is going. Right channel is lower sound level than right using my turntable, totally even using digital. Table is Project RPM 5 carbon that I bought as a store demo with the blue point 2 so no telling how many hrs on it.

 

The rest of the system is a PS audio GCPH phono pre, deHaviland Ultraverve 3, McCormack DNA 1, Martin Logan SL3s with new panels. 
 

I loved the warmth and focus of the blue point but am a bit back by how much they cost $500. Don’t laugh I know carts can cost thousands but I got a kid in college!

 

Any recommendations for something at or under that price point that is better? 

1trackmind

Showing 3 responses by inna

inna
7,839 posts
 

Grado at this level may give you a foggy unbalanced sound.

inna
7,839 posts
 

I have Goldring 1042 MM for my Nottingham Spacedeck/Spacearm. Bought it years ago from analogueseduction.net in the UK for $350. Now it is probably more, US prices are $600 or so. I doubt you will find an overall better cartridge in this price range. It does nothing wrong and many things right or I would've replaced it long ago.

inna
7,839 posts
 

It is also determined by how good your table/arm/phono stage are. And by the rest of your system, for that matter. $500 cartridge in a $100k system is definitely not going to be the best value but $5k one can be.

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