Denon DL304

I recently acquired a Denon DL103m.  If you have a preamp or phono stage that has enough gain for this cartridge it will give cartridges costing 4 figures a run for their money.  I just love it.  Unfortunately, it is long out of production and only available used.  If patient you should be able to find one for $300 to $400.

Have no idea what the issues were with reliability; saw a few people mentioning this on one of the various analogue forums. I was unable to find one to purchase new in any event.
The Shelter vs the DL103R might be akin to a very, very good solid state Class A amp vs a quality SET tubed amplifier. The denon sounds a little "fatter" and the Shelter sounds "crisper". They are both very good; Shelter has a bit more output than the Denon but both are consideredd low output.

Denon is supposedly more difficult to marry with an arm due to its higher VTF requirement and compliance rating. I use a SME 312 which works well with both cartridges and sounds very nice.

I also have a Dynavector DV20XH but it is not as good as either of the above cartridges. I have it mounted on a Yamaha PX3 turntable which is part of the hometheatre.

Pauly,

The stock arm that comes on an Apollo, probably
aluminum tube not magnesium.

I have heard nice things about the Shelters and you
can get them new. Not sure if DL304's are available
anymore!

Hi C123666. What reliability problem are your referrring to?

How does the Shelter compare to the Denon 103R?

I have a DL103 and want something a bit different. I was thinking that if I do not go for a DL304 I would consider the shelter.

Thanks
Paul

Himu, what arm are you using on your Maplenoll?

Thanks
Paul

Been using the 304 for 10 years w/o any problems, super
cartridge for the money best I have heard in this $range.

My table is a Maplenoll so not able to comment on interaction with other tables.
I cannot say enough good things
about this cartridge it has a lighter and more
delicate presentation over the DLl03.

I have read of reliability issues with the 304. I wound up with a Shelter 501 II and a Denon DL103R. The Denon works great on the Scheu classic 12"

They were only imported into Canada to my knowledge. I have one that I have not used in years although I thought it was better than the Denon 103.