Thank you @jasonbourne71 and @tooblue for your recommendations, now time to do some research. There is a tremendous amount of knowledge on Audiogone, but what I read in the analog forum is often times way over my head, but I'm learning.
John
Cartridge Upgrade Recommendations
Hello fellow audiophiles,
I've recently found myself gravitating back to vinyl and streaming less, which has reignited my passion for analog listening. As a result, I'm considering upgrading my cartridge..
Current Setup:
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Turntable: Rebuilt Garrard 301
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Tonearm: Ortofon TA-210
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Cartridge: Ortofon Quintet Blue MC
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Phono Cable: Ortofon
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Phono Stage: Synthesis 79DC
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Preamp: Synthesis 117DC
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Power Amplifiers: Synthesis 98DC monoblocks
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Speakers: Audio Note AN-E LX HE Hemp
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Cables: Mix of Audio Note Lexus and AudioQuest
I appreciate the warmth and weight that my current setup provides, but I feel there's more detail and clarity to be uncovered. Occasionally, the sound seems slightly veiled or muted, lacking the intricate details I'm seeking. I suspect that the stock tubes in my phono stage might be contributing to this, and I plan to experiment with some vintage 12AX7 and 12AU7 tubes from my collection when time permits.
I had my sights set on the Koetsu Rosewood Signature, but with recent price increases, it's become a more significant investment. My budget is around $4,000, though I'm open to stretching it if it leads to a substantial improvement. I'm aiming for a cartridge that maintains warmth and weight but also brings enhanced detail and clarity to the forefront.
My musical tastes are quite eclectic, ranging from Nine Inch Nails to the Grateful Dead, Charles Mingus to RÜFÜS DU SOL, and Muddy Waters to Beck. That said, I predominantly listen to jazz, vocals, and acoustic music on vinyl.
I'm open to purchasing used equipment but have reservations about used cartridges due to potential wear and unknown history.
I would greatly appreciate any recommendations or insights you might have regarding cartridge options that align with my preferences and system. Your collective wisdom is invaluable as I navigate this upgrade.
Thank you in advance for your guidance!
John
Showing 6 responses by curtisvill
Thank you for the recommendations. Was listening to my stereo last night and was loving what I was hearing. While I feel my digital side is very good, I am liking vinyl more for recent listening sessions. Now for a couple of more questions. I have never mounted a phono cartridge before, my local shop set up my current table. If I am going to be spending the money for an improved cartridge I want to insure I get the best performance possible from the upgrade. Any advice on mounting the cartridge would be most appreciated. I have always wanted a koetsu here rosewood and I see a couple for sale on the gone that seem reasonably priced. Are any of the cartridges recommended “better” and then the koetsu or are they just different? Thanks for your time. |
I am curious what you would do in this situation. I have found a Koetsu Rosewood signature that has recently been re-tipped for $3150. I would need to find someone to come and help me set up my cartridge as I have never done that. Option two is a brand new Rosewood Koetsu rosewood from my local shop. Most everything I have in my system has come from them and I value the relationship tremendously. I do not know the sonic differences between the Rosewood and the Rosewood signature and would appreciate any insight as to the differences. I know I may be overthinking this, really appreciate your help. This is not only about equipment, it is also about a relationship. |
So I went with what @karl_desch recommended and purchased the Koetsu rosewood from my local shop, the owner and his son just left after installing it on my turntable. All I can say is WOW! The depth, weight, and detail is simply stunning. I am amazed at how quiet it is while listening, just silent background. Very happy with my purchase. Happy listening. |
@larryi I currently use Audio Note Lexus speaker cables and silver Audio Note cables between the phono stage and preamp, the rest are a mix of Audioquest and Cardras. Just purchased 3 new Synthesis power cables for the amps and preamp, next path is AN cables thruout and a new DAC. I appreciate everyone’s help and guidance. john |
Thank you @pindac , there is a lot to unpack in your post. I have thought about upgrading my phonostage, but not sure what direction to go. My local is great, he will let me take most any piece I want for a home demo. Last night after listening to my vinyl rig for 4 hours I wanted to stream Alan Parsons Project I Robot and it did not have the same depth, richness, and detail my vinyl side offers. I should state that there was a time my streaming was better than my vinyl but that has now been upended. I should also say that I do not need anything new, my system sounds amazing,
John |