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Need recommendations for a Cartridge under $2K

Hi there ,
I have a VPI TNT Turntable , Clearaudio Universal Tonearm & an ageing Benz Micro cartridge ( forget which model ) , other equipment is ARC Phono 5 / LS 27 & Reference 150 with Wilson Sophia 2's . I want a new Cartridge but have a budget of $2000 maximum , I was considering the Talisman V2 or possibly a Dynavector or Ortofon as these are the 3 Brands my local Dealer sells . Would appreciate any / all feedback . Cheers .
chris_launder
12 responses Add your response
manitunc
795 posts
 
My strongest recommendation for the Lyra Delos in the under $2000 range.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Second the Delos, superb cartridge at any price.
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
The two I've owned that really stand out have been Lyra delos and Dynavector XX2 MKII.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,992 posts
 
Another vote for the Delos.
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
Of your dealer carries these 3 brands, then why not audition the carts? In your home if possible.

And be sure to check compatibility of these carts with your tonearm's effective mass (easiest place to do this is Vinyl Engine cart database)
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
I would strongly suggest the Soundsmith Aida. ($1500). A true giant killer in my humble opinion.
fjn04
1,561 posts
 
The best sub 2K cartridge I have ever heard is the EMT tsd-15.
I have no idea how it would mate w/ your tonearm or phono stage. I have mine successfully mated to a Well Tempered Amadeus.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Lyra and Dynavector cartridges seem to mate well with VPI tables. So you probably can't go wrong with either the Delos or XX-2 mk II. Another good one that you may consider, though it's hard to demo is the ZYX Yatra.
chris_launder OP
66 posts
 
Thankyou everyone for your recommendations , I will see if the Delos is available locally , otherwise the Dynavector XX-2 looks like the one ... Cheers .
will_herrera
40 posts
 
Another recommendation for the Lyra Delos. This cartridge has completely transformed the sound of my system (for the better, of course).
rsimms
150 posts
 
I suggest the Denon DLS1. Johnathan Carr says that it is tricky to mate with the right Phono Stage because of an electrical peak in the ultrasonic range and low output. That seems to explain my issues with this cartridge. It is very transparent and neutral. The coil doesn't have metal in it's core so no transformer like effects. Incredible sounding if electronics allows.

Bob
frogman
7,456 posts
 
How about a little more info for a truly useful rec. What do you like, and don't like, about your current cart? If you could wave a magic wand while listening and change the sound of your analog rig, how would you change it?
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