Lyra Etna SL vs. Transfiguration Proteus + Koetsu Urushi


I had an unfortunate incident and accidentally broke off the cantilever of my "My Sonic Lab Ultra Eminent Bc" which had barely 50 hours on it (long story). It was a terrific all a a-rounder and my back up Benz LPS is already getting long in the tooth so I guess it's time for  a new cart or carts.

I have read many reviews on the Lyra Etna SL and searched most forums and  almost all of them had rave reviews. Though I have not heard this cart personally nor any Lyra cart for that matter. What is holding me back is the price. It is difficult to purchase a cart ( or any piece of audio for that matter ) without a home demo. In this case, it will be a blind buy. As an example, the Ortofon A90, it had rave reviews and a lot of people love it. I didn't hate it but it wasn't my cup of tea. Now,  If I love the Etna SL  than great ( at this price range "like" is not enough ), if not I'm dead to rights with a very expensive cart. 

On the other hand, I have heard the Proteus and was absolutely impressed and I also have heard most Koetsu's which is definitely pure magic in the midrange. Though the different colors in the Urushi line still bewilders me. I was initially intrigued by the Coralstone but I didn't feel it would be a good all a-arounder for that price.

So, would you get the better more expensive cart ( I am assuming based on price alone ) or the musical flexibility of two carts with polar opposite characteristics? The price of the Lyra SL is almost similar to the Proteus plus Urushi added together. Your thoughts appreciated.

P.S. I have an extra armwand for my Graham so no need to get an extra tonearm.
P.P.S My system is in the virtual systems ( sorry, don't know how to attach it/link it here)
attymbb

Showing 2 responses by rauliruegas

Dear @tom_hankins : Air Tigth cartridges are builded by My Sonic Labs.

@attymbb, very good choice the Lyra Etna.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.
Dear @attymbb: Why try to make a change for a different cartridge that means a different kind of performance?. My Sonic Lab cartridges has great design and quality excecution design and are second to none.

I like Transfiguration and Lyra too but your Sonic Lab needs only to be fixed by My Sonic Lab and if you want a second cartridge instead the LPS then you can think in the Transfiguration or the Etna where both are better than the Urishi.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.