Very helpful thankyou, to answer Doug Deacon's question, I am getting the fully adjustable K and K stage, 44db on mm and set for 20db gain with the installed Step Up, that is 64db gain in total. You can adjust the step up to a maximum of 70db of gain. Kevin Carter says in his opinion the stage is quiet enough to cope with .24mv cartridges with the set up 64 db of gain.
New Cartridge choice
I know its an old question and one thats impossible to answer, as cartridge choice is so personal, but a bit of guidance would be appreciated. I use an Origin Live illustrious/ Resolution table, currently with a Koetsu Rosewood Signature. I am about to take delivery of a K&K audio phonostage, so I will let that bed in first.
Its hard to usefully audition cartridges and almost impossible to do A/B comparisons. I will almost certainly be buying 2nd user which makes it harder still. I know 2nd hand is risky with cartridges, but I have always done that and had no problems to date.
I listen to classical, opera, Solo Singers, Blues. I find the Koetsu is a great sound, but lacks detail and can sound muddled in complex passages.
My thoughts to date: Koetsu Rosewood Signature Platinum
Shelter 90X
ZYX Airey 2 or 3
I am sure you may have better ideas. One problem is that none of these cartridges appear commonly on E-Bay or Audiogon.
Your thoughts would be appreciated
Its hard to usefully audition cartridges and almost impossible to do A/B comparisons. I will almost certainly be buying 2nd user which makes it harder still. I know 2nd hand is risky with cartridges, but I have always done that and had no problems to date.
I listen to classical, opera, Solo Singers, Blues. I find the Koetsu is a great sound, but lacks detail and can sound muddled in complex passages.
My thoughts to date: Koetsu Rosewood Signature Platinum
Shelter 90X
ZYX Airey 2 or 3
I am sure you may have better ideas. One problem is that none of these cartridges appear commonly on E-Bay or Audiogon.
Your thoughts would be appreciated