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 mr_m

I use a Nagaoka MP-200 on a very light weight Well Tempered Labs tonearm. It works beautifully. It easily bettered my Soundsmith cartridge that cost $1200. 

The Nag has a timbral accuracy and sweetness that plays up there with some of the big boys. And has very good bass reproduction.

My Nag has the elliptical stylus, as the MP-500 has more of a line contact one .
The 500 would be a good choice for you as it is squarely in your price range of $800. I know some will say it's low compliance will not work well with lighter tonearms but my combination shows it will work.
Cheers,
OP. Lots of good discounts on Nagaoka on the net. Saw a M-P 500 for around $760.
Raul, 

Years ago I had a Clearaudio cartridge that was highly reviewed and thought of. Can't remember the model. I liked it but it was a little incisive sounding in the higher freq. Dare I say just a smidgen bright? No adjustments I did would correct this. Does Clearaudio carts still have this quality? I still believe they have high quality components though.
Cheers,
Tim