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 2 responses by noromance

noromance's avatar
noromance
10,154 posts
 

Not quite. If a curve is traced where sound quality is on the X axis and cost is on the Y axis, there exists a theoretical infinite set of sweet spots ocurring at any point on the curve. By stipulating the budget of $500, the OP is looking for the best SQ/cartridge at that point on the curve. 

Just responding the the title. The sweetspot is determined mostly by your financial situation. 

noromance's avatar
noromance
10,154 posts
 

Swap the phono leads on your PS Audio phono to make sure the sound level issue reverses (to rule out an issue with the amp.)

EDIT: ^ Elliott got there before me!

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