Replacement for my Benz Micro Ruby

Benz are still being made, and better than ever, but their days of mass distribution into North America are long gone. Look at the dealer ads here on audiogon. "Kron" sells the modern Benz line, and they sound excellent. I’ve bought a few Benz from him myself - no affiliation, otherwise.

The new Zebrawood bodies sound better than the Bruyere wood did, and there are have also been other motor improvements along with a micro ridge stylus.

If you want to change brands (after 20years!) without totally getting into a different kind of sound than Benz offers, Koetsus are extremely lovely! However on a VPI you may want to look into the 3D arm with dual pivot for a Koetsu.

I had a ruby on a couple different VPIs.  Eventually, I upgraded to a benz ebony lps, with micro ridge stylus and still use it.  It was quite an upgrade; I found it to be a far better cartridge than the ruby, more neutral, more revealing, a greater sense of ease.  I don't have an opinion on the cartridges you mention but if you are able to source an ebony lps you will I am sure be very pleased. 

Hi

What is the output version of your current Benz?

My Benz output is .3mv

Thank you everyone for the great input. I will look for a source on a new Benz.

I use a quicksilver SUT

Benz is very much in the US:

I got a Ruby Z low from that importer last month. In stock and his and the dealer’s service was great.

I had a LPS.....great cartridge...used it with a VPI 10 inch and 2nd pivot

Dear @linkoarc  : This is a great alternative, you can't go wrong with and it's at very good price inside your budget:

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,

R.

Btw, same seller " runs " the LPS too.

Yes, but I can totally understand JMW unipivot users wanting a wood-bodied Benz 🎶. That combo is undeniable with upper bass & lower midrange “meat-on-the-bone” and texture. Very engaging musically.

Contact Osage Audio, they just might have what you're looking for.

http://www.osageaudio.com/BenzMicro.html

Cardas carries a Myrtle Heart which is a Benz Ruby 3 in a Myrtlewood body

@bobsdevices Cool, I didn’t know that ;-))))