Clear Audio Virtuoso Ebony v2 Cartridge

Turntable is an extensively modified Rega RP3.

I am sure the virtuoso is superior to the black bird. So too are many other cartridges. The black bird just isn’t that good.

As a Blackbird owner, I must say I don’t hear any problems. Granted, I hardly listen to vinyl these days. Your assessment makes me want to play some faves to see what the heck you’re talking about. Can either of you provide examples of "harsh" high-end records you have played? I've got plenty of audiophile premium vinyl.

Dweller,

I didn’t have any have any problems with audiophile discs. They sound just fine on the Blackbird.  By ”high end” I meant the high frequencies were harsh in many of my favorite recordings.  I wasn't referring to high end audiophile records. Since you asked, though, here are some examples of records that were problematic:
Just about any Count Basie big band record is so harsh it’s unlistenable.
One of my favorite discs is a DG recording of Prokofiev’s Scythian Suite. Again, unlistenable. Many older London Treasury selections are also a problem.
No such difficulties with the Virtuoso.

Count Basie usually recorded on Roulette. Roulette LPs are notoriously harsh and the treble can make your ears bleed. Sadly, many great Basie recordings are thus practically ruined. Basie with Joe Williams, Basie with Sarah Vaughn.

While it’s not perfect, the sound of Basie on the Clear Audio and my previous Grado Sonata is listenable and enjoyable.

Could this be rolled-off treble making things "listenable"? Thanks for your response RV.

Could be your right, but right now going through my very large collection of LP’s and enjoying every one!