Need some help picking my first MC Cartridge


I have recently purchased an Icon PS1 Mk II tube Phono Preamp. and was thinking of purchasing a seperate MC cartridge and head to interchange with my Nagoaka MP 300 MM cartridge, which I am very happy with. This is my first MC Cartridge so this is more of a chance to compare MC versus MM Cartridges. Some suggestions have been Denon 103 or the Hana Red, The Icon Preamp has a fixed MC load setting of 100 ohms. The Sansui SR 525 Direct Drive Turntable that I will be using has an interchangeable cartridge head, so VTA height, tracking weight, anti-skating adjustments may be required for each cartridge but should not take more than 20 minutes to adjust. I have read that some low output cartridges may be preferable to high output, but I am not sure how this matches up with the Icon Preamp. I am a little in the weeds here with the technical information when it comes to cartridges so be gentle.

My listening preference is more to the musical / warm vinyl side. Gear: Tube preamp, Class "A" amp , alternating with a tube Integrated, Wilson Benesch Square 2 Speakers, Rel Subs (x2). I split my listening about 50/50 Vinyl/Digital.

My Budget is up to $1500.00

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Showing 2 responses by doyle3433

I've been following this thread. I have my own Hana ML on it's way from Upscale. I dealt with Bill, he was great to talk to, good advice. 

I also ordered a Dr. F. alignment tool. These sausage fingers have installed only a couple of carts over the years, under $300 carts...

I'm a bit nervous. Bill suggested I practice on my existing MoFi cart a couple of times before I tackle the Hana. I thought that was an great piece of advice!