I assume someone spending up to 4k on a cartridge would have or will have a phono stage that is suitable for that cartridge. Same thing goes for the tonearm. I would put my vote in for a Dynavector based on my experience with many dyna's of different cost. They have all been consistently detailed, smooth, extended, lively and track well. There does seem to be a consistency of sound between the dynas, just more so as the price gets higher.
I have not heard a high end Ortofon, but the 2M Black is an outstanding MM. I am also impressed with the Benz Glider II. I am using SME arms with GCPH and Simaudio LP5.3 phono preamps
I have not heard a high end Ortofon, but the 2M Black is an outstanding MM. I am also impressed with the Benz Glider II. I am using SME arms with GCPH and Simaudio LP5.3 phono preamps