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Decent backup cartridge

I’ve got my Soundsmith Zephyr lll in for a rebuild at Soundsmith.  2 months in and probably longer to go.  I’ve been using an Ortofon Red as my backup.  Just not doable much longer.  Sutherland 20/20 for a phono pre.  Would like to keep cost under $600.  I listen to jazz primarily, so I like detailed warm.  Audiotechnica seems to have a selection, Hana EL? Denon?  Maybe Ortofon Bronze?  TT is a Scout Jr.   
Primaluna and Klipsch Cornwall 1 for the rest.  I listen daily and wish I could endure this Red, and save the cash, but I think it’s a good idea to have a better backup cart.   Thanks for your opinions.  Always enjoy other folks experience.
 

 

george53
panzrwagn's avatar
panzrwagn
655 posts
 

@jasonbourne71 I ordered a Grado Platinum 3, then a Sonata 3 both of them were unusable in my system. Music Direct was unable to offer any advice which might mitigate the hum, including different cables, different grounding, even different preamp - nada. FWIW, back in the day, the AR Xa and Xb were also a no-go with Grados for the same reason, so the problem is neither new nor unique. Swap in the Hana I got in exchange, plus a little cash, and no issues whatsoever.  MD was great,and patient, but they just had no answers.  

motoraway's avatar
motoraway
62 posts
 

Hana SL can be had for $600 or less. Check with HiFi Heaven or 2juki on eBay. 

rossb
193 posts
 

The Audio Technica VM95ML is surprisingly good, despite its very cheap price, and an ideal back up cartridge. I often listen to it in place of my Lyra Delos or Cadenza Bronze and find it very musical and engaging. 

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