2. analog
  3. 1244390917

help with cartridge selection

Hi,
I'm very new and would appreciate any advice.
I have a Garrard 401 and a SME 3009 S2 Improved(fixed headshell.
I have been reading about what cartridge to use with this arm and there are several options. From what I understand if I want to use the SME 3009 S2 Improved without mods I can use a Goldring 1042, or a Shure V15 or a Grado Red or a Shure M97xE as those seems the better matches.
And also some experiences tell that if I wanna use a Denon DL103 with the SME 3009 S2 Improved I need to change the SME plastic bearings for bronze ones and make other mods.

I couldnt find too many comments about how the arm/cartridge combos match with the Garrard 401 specifically. So I would like some advice on what will be the best cartridge for the SME 3009 S2 Improved with a garrard 401.
Thanks,
-bird
birdliver
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Stefanl,

You're right about those numbers of course. The 103's real compliance has been known for many years, long before John Ellison ever posted about it.

My guidance was not based on arm/cart resonance calculations, which are only useful for avoiding gross incompatibilities. Actual performance is better assessed by listening, and my guidance was based on that.

I've used the stock 103/103R in arms with effective masses ranging from 10-11g (including Rega) up to 18g or so. Does it work on the lighter arms? Sure. Does it work optimally? No, not even close.

I assume the OP is looking for the best performance for his money.
Post removed 
birdliver OP
21 posts
 
I appreciate all the contributions. I will look for high compliance cartridges and have gotten some advice from Raul, also. I think that there are enough options available without my forcing the issue with the Denon 103/103R with this arm, albeit the consensus that it's an outstanding cart. Thanks everyone, it's been very helpful. Cheers,-bird
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,084 posts
 
Dear Bird: +++++ " My guidance was not based on arm/cart resonance calculations, which are only useful for avoiding gross incompatibilities. Actual performance is better assessed by listening. " +++++

Doug is spot-on in the subject.

I agree with Zenblaster on the Goldring 1042 that is very good performer and the " humble " Shure M97 can be even better ( surprising good ) with the Jico SAS stylus replacement.

Regards and enjoy thye music,
Raul.
More to discover