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Questions - returning to analog

I have some basic questions and am seeking some recommendations:

I am steadily upgrading my old college system (Yamaha receiver, Von Schweikert monitors, Sony CD changer), and have now running purchased Maggie 3.5's driven by Plinius 8200 integrated w/ internal MM phono stage, HHB pro recording CD for digital.

I have not yet upgraded my analog gear. I have an old Technics SL-BD20, and as an interim step before buying a better 'table have purchased a new cartridge on the cheap (due to Technics P-mount arm).

Question 1: New cart has much better high end than old Shure M94P, but also a lot of sibilance especially with cymbals. Hi-hats sound like spitting, breaking glass. What causes this? When I increase tracking, sibilance seems to reduce...but sound is less animated, seems muted and strained. It is currently unlistenable and am not ready to use it as a frisbee yet.

Question 2: I'm on a budget. When I upgrade, what's a good 'table / tonearm / cartridge that won't set me back too much, but will provide enduring listening benefits?

Have seen MMF-1's and other entry-level models used on Audiogon at reasonable prices. But I am also curious if biting the bullet for MMF-5, Rega, VPI or similar tier would be a better long-term purchase.

I also love the look of the Basis 1400 and have heard some good things about them, but am more interested in realistic sonic matching with my other components...despite that really cool acrylic plinth.

Thanks in advance for all your responses, Audiogon has never failed to provide me real-world, meaningful suggestions. But I'm really afraid this is starting to turn into an obsession...LOL

Tim
timwat

Showing 1 response by mwilson

mwilson
430 posts
 
Hi Tim,

As for decent MM cartridges:

Goldring 1042 and Shure V15 (check revision #) are classic, current-production MM cartridges for $250-$350. For an excellent "value" cartridge, I love my Shure M97xE. That cartridge costs about $90 and replacement stylus runs about $50. For the price, you can start out with a decent cartridge, and later use it as a backup if you decide to buy a better cartridge. For the price, you just about can't lose.

http://www.shure.com/m97xe.html

As for starting out with a new table, I have the Music Hall MMF2.1 and it's a nice table for the money, but beware the tonearm (bearings, mass, counterweight) isn't designed for MC carts - the MMF 1.0 wouldn't be either. These two tables won't exactly grow with you. I think the 5.0 is fine for MC carts, but I am not positive. As far as your concern about long-term purchases, this sort of thing speaks to "Yes" - buy a little more table now than you think you need, and you'll be happier you did later on.

I would start with Rives' suggestions. Some Rega owners may also be able to name some good Rega tables that might be in your price range. I haven't played with one, so you'd have to get an owner's perspective.

Lots of fun,
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