Linn Ittok IV II - The Best Cartridge Match ?


I have an Ittok IV II on a Cirkus'd & Lingo'd LP12 an plan to replace my K18 with a good MC cartridge.

The following choices have been recommended:

-Audio Technica OC9 (newest model)
-Audio Technica AT33PTG (More detailed?)
-Denon DL-103R
-Denon DL 301 II

All of these cartridges seem to offer good value, but I'd like to know which might make the best match with my LP12 setup. I have heard less about the AT33PTG than the others, it may be less forgiving to certain recordings, but seems to offer the type of sound staging I like.

The Denon cartridges don't advertise frequence response below 20hz and also track heavier than the Audio Technicas'.
Are these specs really significant?

Any feedback on these cartridges, or other recommendations would be appreciated.
nsmith7

Showing 2 responses by xagwell

I started out with the OC 9, then moved to a Benz Glider, and now I have the Shelter 90X. Like you I have the Cirkus, Trampolin, Lingo, and Ittok LV II. You may already know this but the 90X is in a different league than the others I mentioned. What phono stage do you have?
I started out with an Audio Research PH-3 that I bought in 1998. I changed the stock Sovtek 6922 for Tungsram which really extended the bass. In April of 06 I upgraded to an Aesthetix Rhea. I really enjoy the sound of tubes so all my gear is tubed except the digital front end. Sytem matching is so important especially at the cartridge/tonearm. I invested in The Complete Guide to High End Audio, by Robert Harley many years ago. Chapter 9 is "the LP Playback System. I still refer to this book when I am in doubt, as well as consult the Agon community.