I underestimated the impact a new cartridge would have


Many in the community learned long ago to not forget how important the cartridge is in the overall musical presentation.  I am not saying I thought it didn't matter, but I was very pleasantly shocked in my recent upgrade.  With anything in life there is the law of diminishing returns.  As a frugal audiophile who primarily purchases used equipment I am looking for that sweet spot to put the brakes on for upgrades.  With all the extra time lately to enjoy the stereo I have really been investing in upgrades.  My table is the Rega RP6.  I am very happy with this table but was ready to try a new cartridge.  I have only had used cartridges for my 15 year vinyl life.  The original MM on my first table, an 80's model Planar 2.  I bought the RP6 used so the Exact 2 was original and used.  I later picked up a used Sumiko Blue Point #2.  This was a somewhat lateral move....sounded nice but didn't impress that much.  Later I took a chance on a Goldring Eroica LX that had the Soundsmith sapphire retip service.  This was a significant upgrade over the Blue Point.  I had that for about 3 years.  Our good friend on here, Kron's amazing deals had me very excited to make a move.  One of my audiophile friends recommended the BENZ so I picked up the SM as I have a tube phono stage.  Right out of the box it blew me away!  The soundstage became 3-dimensional.  The lead vocalists all took a step forward and the voices are so precise.  The overall soundstage is more detailed with all instruments and backup vocalists  more precise.  The overall dynamics of the sound improved across all frequencies.  It was by FAR the best $800 I have ever spent on my system.  I have considered buying another one just to store away as I will likely need it one day.  Of course it also makes me wonder is there something even better???  Of course there is, but finding it is the challenge.  No idea if this cartridge offers this result in any system or if it just happens to like ARC tube gear.  Regardless....my point of this thread is to encourage vinyl lovers that have an old cartridge that has kind of been forgotten, to do some research and consider an upgrade.  Happy listening!
Dana
dhite71

Showing 1 response by mijostyn

Dana, that is the hook, the thought that there is something better. How do you know what you are getting? At best it is an educated crap shoot as in your case you took your friends advice. 
What is the most accurate cartridge and what is the best sounding one are two very different issues.
I have 24/192 downloads and vinyl of the same material. I'll match volumes and compare. The Clearaudio Da Vinci and Ortofon Windfeld Ti sound almost identical to the download. The Da Vinci is perhaps a bit more dynamic and a tad brighter than the Ortofon. The Clearaudio Charisma which I just purchased is obviously darker, larger and a lot more dynamic than the files. I think it is safe to say the Da Vinci and Windfeld Ti are more accurate but boy when it comes to rock the Charisma is so endearing. When you listen to it doing The Red Hot Chili Peppers who cares if it is accurate or not.
Now you have an additional problem when you start liking different cartridges for different music. Two Tonearms? Two Turntables? Two phono amps? Are you going to change cartridges every time you switch genres? 
My best advice unless you are filthy rich is, ignorance is bliss. Enjoy your Benz  and stay where you are until it shows signs of wear then do your educated crap shoot again.