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 1 response by mulveling

mulveling's avatar
mulveling
2,154 posts
 

@elliottbnewcombjr In the sub $500 new cartridge market I am interested in knowing what options there are for boron or other hybrid cantilevers. For awhile there was carbon fiber but that was more of a cheap as chips option for Audio Technica.

Boron is not common at this price point, even used. Audio Technica makes one that’s (sort of) close - OC9XML, $600 new. There should be various used AT’s with boron out there. You can sometimes find a used Benz Ace or Glider at this price (boron, with either Fritz Gyger or Japanese MicroRidge stylus). A brand new Ace used to cost $550 (circa 2000s) but those days are gone and these models are no longer common.

That said - aluminum cantilevers can sound very, very good. Sometimes even preferable to boron, depending on the cartridge!

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