2. analog
  3. 1317558507

CONUNDRUM

I'm fairly new to vinyl. In my haste to put together a fairly nice front end, I have created a mis-match between my cart, phono stage and my linestage. I have a Clearaudio Maestro cart feeding a ARC PH-7 feeding an Aesthetix Calypso. The PH-7 is over driving the Caypso with no way to reduce the output without sacrificing quality of sound. (attentuators don't work. In dropping the output, they also compromise the signal quality)) I can go to a low output MC coil cart, or change one of my preamps. I'm looking for a WARM sound with all the usual qualities one would want in a good sounding system. The MC cart seems like the way to go, but the $$ keeps piling up as it so often does in this hobby. Suggestions please.
handymann

Showing 3 responses by handymann

handymann OP
389 posts
 
I think I may go with a Koetsu Urushi MC cart. Any comments?
handymann OP
389 posts
 
I have a rather low end table-Clearaudio Emotion with stock arm. I heard the Concerto cart is good @ reproduction, while not emphasizing surface noise. I really need suggestions on the cartridge. You say the Koetsu?
handymann OP
389 posts
 
I tried both GOLDENJACKS and ROTHWELL attentutors. Both do the job they have been assigned, however I did notice a slight difference in the clarity of the sound. Having spent money to achieve more clarity, this was obviously not a viable solution. For some systems they might be just the thing and are for sale if anyone wants them.
Both the Aesthetix as well as the PH-7 are excellent pieces of equipment and sound VERY good separately as I'm sure they will together with a lower output cart. I didn't consider possibly needing a variable output on the 7, or a variable input on the Calypso-but should have. I really appreciate all the responses and various suggestions to help remedy my problem. A lower output cart is on it's way.
Soon, the Calypso and the 7 should be working well together.
More to discover