I had the Platinum and bought the Aurum Beta S (What a Stupid name). The Aurum Beta S is much more refined than the Grado. It does cost more and should rightfully be compared to the Sonata. But I think with the experience that I have had with other Grado Cartridges, I would pick the Clearaudio. Also, I would like to try the Virtuoso Wood when this cartridge gives out or I hit the lottery. According the reviews, it sounds better than the Aurum.
If Grado is the Ying, Is a Clearaudio the Yang???
I've a lot of experience with various Grado cartridges (TLZII, Prestige Gold, Sonata Reference) and even a Benz Micro GLider. But have always wanted to try one of the sub $1K Clearaudio cartridges. Can someone who uses a Clearaudio, give me some indication of what to expect sound wise? I'm not sure I know what their "house" sound really is like.....
I like rich, full and lush sounding cartridges. Will something like the Clearaudio (i.e. Aurum, Virtuoso Wood, etc.) be able to scratch that itch?
My table is a Well Tempered Classic with a Coda 03P phono stage. Run into a VAC Standard Pre LE and VAC PA100/100 and new Merlin VSM-M (with all the tweeks).
Any other cartridge recommendations would also be welcome.
I like rich, full and lush sounding cartridges. Will something like the Clearaudio (i.e. Aurum, Virtuoso Wood, etc.) be able to scratch that itch?
My table is a Well Tempered Classic with a Coda 03P phono stage. Run into a VAC Standard Pre LE and VAC PA100/100 and new Merlin VSM-M (with all the tweeks).
Any other cartridge recommendations would also be welcome.
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