Is there usually a dramatic difference between $5k and $10k cartridges ?

@martinl07d : The $16K Grado Epoch is a moving iron cartridge so no SUT needed.

@noromance : $10K to make an excellent phono cartridge? Really? Let’s assume an engine for a BMW automobile costs $10K to build. I can understand that. Plenty of parts that must be machined to tight tolerances and then skillfully assembled by a team of workers. A phono cartridge is a small device that weighs several grams. I fail to see where there is $10K worth of parts and labor.

Show me some measurements (THD, channel separation, trackability) where the $10K cartridge outperforms the $5K. Otherwise subjective opinions are like looking out a window and discussing the weather.