I have had both Sumiko cartridges, and currently have both a Hana EL and Ortofon 2M Bronze. IMO, the Hana and Ortofon are superior to the Blue Points. The 2M Bronze is more dynamic, and has more detail than Hana. The Hana is smoother overall, and is possibly more refined. Like them both. Am also using an AT ART9, and thinking of acquiring a Kiseki Blue or Hana ML. Have 3 TTs in use, and a spare Clearaudio Concept tt with concept MC cartridge. So I’m a bit over stocked on analogue stuff right now.
Choice of Phono Cartridges
I am looking to buy a new phono cartridge in the $450 to $550 price range. Lots to choose from, but I'm looking for some advice on what might be best for my current analog rig. System consists of:
Audio-Technica AT-LP7 table with AT-VMN20EB cartridge
Project Tube Box DS phono amp
BAT VK 42se Preamp
BAT VK 250 Power amp
Apogee Duetta Signature speakers
Paradigm reference Servo Subs
I'm thinking about the following cartridges:
Sumiko Blue Point Special EVO-III mc at $549
Sumiko Blue Point #2 at $449
Hana E mc at $475
Sound Smith Otello ES at $400
Ortofon 2M Bronze mm at $440
Ortofon MC Quintet Blue at $524
Audio-Technica AT-OC9XML mc at $549
Clearaudio Performer V2 at $450
I realize that it's a long list, but I'd like to hear from any of you who might have had any experience with these cartridges and any advice you can give. I have a collection of around 2000 LP's and want to improve on the current SQ of the AT-LP7.
Or, maybe I should invest in anew TT at around $1,000 to $1,200?
Thanks in advance for your input.
Richard
Audio-Technica AT-LP7 table with AT-VMN20EB cartridge
Project Tube Box DS phono amp
BAT VK 42se Preamp
BAT VK 250 Power amp
Apogee Duetta Signature speakers
Paradigm reference Servo Subs
I'm thinking about the following cartridges:
Sumiko Blue Point Special EVO-III mc at $549
Sumiko Blue Point #2 at $449
Hana E mc at $475
Sound Smith Otello ES at $400
Ortofon 2M Bronze mm at $440
Ortofon MC Quintet Blue at $524
Audio-Technica AT-OC9XML mc at $549
Clearaudio Performer V2 at $450
I realize that it's a long list, but I'd like to hear from any of you who might have had any experience with these cartridges and any advice you can give. I have a collection of around 2000 LP's and want to improve on the current SQ of the AT-LP7.
Or, maybe I should invest in anew TT at around $1,000 to $1,200?
Thanks in advance for your input.
Richard