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MM Cartridge recommendation needed

I just succesfully completed a re-wire of the tone arm on SL-1200, I replaced the stock wires with Cardas litz wires. I also moded the standard cartidge mount to eliminate the cartridge leads. Now the tone wire clip directly to the cartidge and are soldered directly to the ICs. The end result is remarkable.

Currently I am using a Ortofon OM cartridge with an night club E stylus.

On my second (un-moded SL1200) I have ortofon 2M blue, this is much better than the OM but I am relunctant to remove it from its headshell and remount it. This is because it took a while to mounted correctly. I would also like to keep as a reference.

So what has this to do with my question?

I would like to have some recommendations on MM cartrdige to replace the OM. I am looking for something in the range of the 2M blue or possibly a notch above. I was considering the Clearaudio Aurum classic or Alpha.
nick_sr

Showing 8 responses by nick_sr

nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
Does any one have any experience with the Nagaoka MP-200?
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
Edtrout
I checked out the Jico SAS-MM1 and i appears that Jico is aftermarket mfg of styli, they make a wide range of styli for a variety of brands.

I am looking for a complete MM cartridge. But thanks for tip (no punn intended)

Mofimadness, I will definetly consider the AT150MLX.
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
I never thought it would be so difficult to get recommendations on MM cartridges. Am I missing something here? Are MC cartridges that much better?
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
I checked out the link, it is definitly interesting. The thing with cartridges is that generally you can't audition them. You can't return them. They are relatively expensive, given the size. And finally if you try and sell them used, even fresh out of the box you take a big hit.

And one more thing that makes me nervous, probably the most important, damaging my record collection (rapid avoidable wear). I have a lot records to which I am emotionally attached, if they get damaged...

So really I am looking for some thing tried and true.

nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
Vinyl Addict, I am aware that the OM DJ stylus stinks that is what is motivating me to buy a new one. Currently I am not listening to any cherished records with that stylus. As for the 2M blue, its no best of class cartridge, but I have properly aligned it and it tracks pretty well. Again, I know I can improve.
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
Raul, how can I be sure that a high output MC or MI will be well suited for my phono pre-amp.

Also, on your long thread you talk about loading MM cartriges to 47k to 100k. How?
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
2M black is getting out of my price range. How is the Bronze in comparison to blue and black?
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
I have decided on one thing, the next cartridge will not be an Ortofon. Not because, I have had a bad experience or anything of that nature. I just need a change. "It's not you Ortofon it's me, we've grown apart and I think I need to hear other cartridge brands".
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