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
david12

Showing 1 response by dougdeacon

Which K&K phono are you getting? Does it have the MC inputs and adjustable impedance? That could influence your decision.

Assuming you'll have adequate gain, the ZYX Airy 3 will also do exactly what you want, particularly the low output version. It needs a stable, non-resonant tonearm so my guess is that it would work well on yours. I've compared the top three ZYX's to a Koetsu Urushi and RSP. Check out the reviews next to my signature. (Both Koetsu's were easily bettered by the ZYX's for everything but midrange soupiness.)

Used ZYX's are somewhat difficult to find, but Mehran of SoraSound sometimes gets them back when people trade up. It's worth contacting him to ask.

One caution: like any cartridge with a line contact or micro-ridge stylus, a ZYX will only give it's very best if VTA/SRA are optimized. Your arm doesn't do that inherently, so if you don't have an aftermarket adjustor that might be in your future as you move up the performance ladder.