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Help in deciding between these two cartridges for an upgrade

I have been very happy with my Benz Micro Wood SM.  I have had it on two Rega turntables with several different amp/preamp/phono combinations.  They were all Audio Research tube components.  I now have the Audio Research GSi75 which has two gain settings:  45db & 63db.  I use it on the high setting now with 0.8mV from the Benz.

I have had my eye on two well reviewed cartridges that are both about 0.4mV

Ortofon Cadenza Bronze 
Kiseki Blue NS

There isn't anything specific I am trying to achieve, simply have the upgrade itch.  Now with a Rega RP10, an integrated amp and my Wilson Sophias there isn't a lot to change other than the cartridge.  My previous cartridge was an Eroica LX that had the Sapphire retip service from SoundSmith.  The move to the Benz was dramatic.  I would want the next move to be as or more dramatic for the investment.  Both of these seem to be at the peak of 'bang for your buck' in the $2000 bracket.

I listen to mostly classic rock, jazz, folk/singer-songwriter, pop, blues and R&B.  

Thanks for your thoughts!Dana
dhite71

Showing 3 responses by tablejockey

tablejockey
3,793 posts
 
I am presently using a Kiseki Blue.

Great cartridge, but depending on what type of "sound" you like there may be others at a more sane price-less than the current $ 2100 retail price. I found a used one for a realistic price. If your thinking about that Blue listed for $1300, that's IMO a fair price.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa6acc-kiseki-blue-n-s-brand-new-cartridges

To my ears it is on the price/performance level of the Audio Technica ART9 for $1.2K. Comparing the 2-ART9 is more AT detailed, in your face. Kiseki Blue presents a warmer, refined sound.

I would also consider the Soundsmith model in your budget. The plus is you will be able to send it back for rebuild.

Why not consider the Apheta? A lot less audiophool worry. Just mount the cart and GO!


tablejockey
3,793 posts
 
dhite71-

If you do have the P10, I would ensure playing ANY cartridge is being presented in its best light-phonostage at the MAX of your audio budget.

After that, If I were in the Rega camp, ALL in with the Aphelion. Yeah, $5K but if you’re commited to Rega(P10) that just what you do!

I’m wondering if a different(tubeor SS, im a tube fan)phonostage would have gave you a different perspective on the first experience with the Apheta. Or perhaps it wasn’t the latest iteration? We audiophools have too much choice! Good luck.

Late edit:

I took a peek at your setup. Nice simple layout and solid gear. I'm assuming you're using the onboard phono section, so perhaps other with experience will chime in on just how much more a stand alone phono stage will bring out of your final choice.
tablejockey
3,793 posts
 
"I heard the differences/improvements as I climbed the phono ladder to end up at an Audio Research REF Phono 2 prior to getting the GSi75."

dhite75-

My guess is your existing setup is very good as is. If you keep AT carts in your final choices, the ART 9XA is the way to go if you have 62 or higher MC gain. If not the XI @.5mv is the alternative.  . AT carts to my ears have the entire sonic spectrum turned a couple notches up. If your system needs that AT definitely should be considered. I use both.

Kiseki to my ears is closer to having an overall tone control at the middle detent on a classic tubed receiver from the 50/60's if that's your taste. That's mine.

No bad move either way in my experience. I have all all tube(integrated)  to speakers as you, just separate phono.
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