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MM Cartridge Recommendation

Hello Everyone, 
Over the past year I've been slowly building up my first system and have just recently upgraded my turntable to a Clearaudio Concept w/ Satisfy Carbon arm.  

My current total system is as follows:
- Belles Aria [Integrated w/ MM phono] 
- B&W 705 [original series from 2004 stand mounts w/ matching stands]
- Clearaudio Concept w/ Satisfy Carbon tonearm 
- Ortofon 2M Black MM cartridge 

Overall I've been very happy with my system especially working within a reasonable budget.  
The Clearaudio has also been a great upgrade from my original entry level [U-Turn Orbit] turntable. 
I bought it used with the 2M Black already mounted, and it is very smooth/neutral sounding with a lot of detail. 
However, at times I find it almost too neutral.

Would anyone have recommendations on another MM cartridge to pair with my existing system?
I'm still trying to determine if I may like another sound better [perhaps more warmth or even just comparison for a different sound] as I explore and still learn what sounds I like. 

I know many people prefer MC, however at this time I do not want to add a MC phono preamp to my system.   
I'd consider HOMC [ie Hana cartridge] but I'm not sure if they would work within my exiting Belles Aria MM system?

My budget is ~$800. 
My preference is to buy new however would consider an easily accessible used [I just don't want to have to search for some obscure hard to find cartridge].  

Also please keep in mind that I am still new to this hobby so am by no means an expert in cartridge setup & alignment. 

Any advice or feedback is really appreciated! 

Thanks! 

 

dsjs4

Showing 3 responses by dsjs4

dsjs4 OP
18 posts
 
Thanks for all the advice so far! 

Just for a little more info and to reply to some previous comments: 
  • I mainly listen to jazz, blues, folk & rock 
  • The majority of my albums are AAA [most are Analogue Production pressings as they seem to be very high quality and I've been trying my best to avoid digitally remastered]
  • Per the seller, the 2M Black has about 150hrs ; I can't validate this but it does seem to be in good shape 

And yes I agree, the Aria is already quite neutral but I really do love it's sound.  Just thought I might try "warming" it up through a new cartridge.  

Again I'm still learning what my ears like....so a lot of this is exploring new sounds and options.  [Hence one of the reasons I don't want to jump into MC and new phono stages at this time].  
dsjs4 OP
18 posts
 
Thanks @noromance !

The Nagaoka MP500 or Audio Technica VM760ML were two that I had come across as well.  My concerns with the Nagaoka is I've read it's difficult to setup and it also looks quite heavy.  I was worried if that would pair well with the Satisfy Carbon tone arm or not?? 

@mofimadness Yes can't agree more about David Belles pieces! I love the Aria....I had "upgraded" it from a Rogue Sphinx V2 and never looked back!! 
dsjs4 OP
18 posts
 
Thanks again everyone! 
If nothing else this has really educated me on a lot more options than I had previously considered.  It also seems to show just how subjective "good" sound can be based on each person's own preference. 

Here have been my thoughts so far: 
  • The Audio Technica - seem like they may really present some great sound at a good value.  Found NOS AT150MLX for $479 which might be worth it just to try that series.  Also the new VM760SLC seems to be the replacement.  Anyone have experience with either. 
  • Garrott Brothers P-77i - seems to have a big cult following and great reviews.  Any sources to actually purchase in the USA or have to order from Australia?  This one seems like a really high potential cartridge. 
  • GRACE - sounds like one of the best all time MM.  Although seems like the secret is definitely out because so far most of what I can find is in the $500 - $600 for a broken stylus.  I also have no experience to buy used cartridges so would want to make sure it's a really reputable source. Any one selling?? lol 
  • Clearaudio Maestro - sounds like a great option as well but to quote @chakster I'm also concerned about the unprotected cantilever and no user replaceable styli.  Also, are these made by Audio Technica?  Maybe they have a similar sound and better value with the AT?? 
  • Nagaoka MP500 - still interested but after looking further it seems like they are now going for $1k.  At that price maybe better consider something else ie) SoundSmith Carmen. 
I definitely still have a lot to learn and more research to do.  Thanks! 

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