2. analog
  3. 1059067532

Replacing a Grace F-9E with ????

It has come to my attention that the cantilever on my cart is, well, bent at a 45 degree angle. So it must be replaced. With what? The system it sits in is: Grace 707 Quad arm, Systemdek II, Dyna PAS2 (60db gain), Quad II. (Gee, its all at least 20 years old now)
My budget is roughly $300 or less, as i have no fear of used equipment, gently used carts are fine. So far i can find used:
Benz micro glider
Grado Sonata, maybe Reference Master

And new:
AT-OC9 or 33
Grados
Shure
Denon ?
Benz ?

Any suggestions from the more experienced of you?

P.S. this should not be taken as a WTB troll.
studeb
3 responses Add your response
nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,124 posts
 
I have used several of the mid-priced Grado's and have been content with them. I currently use a Benz Glider M2 and find it to be much better than the Grado's or the Sumiko's I have had over the last few years. I know the Benz can be had used for about the price range you are in.

Keep and eye out for a Shelter 501 too.
joeabrams
132 posts
 
First, you may wanna check with some dealers who might still have Grace replacement stylii (F9E, L & Ruby will work with that body)in NOS stock. Try Lyric and Stereo Exchange in NYC & Needle Doctor.
Also, the 707 is a very low mass arm, so best not to use low compliance carts, such as Denon & some Grados, with it. Shure V15 series will work well, as will most Sumiko Blue Points & Ortofons.
Caution about low output MCs, many will not have enough gain to stay out of the too-much-noise range w/your preamp unless you also get a head amp or transformer.
Best of luck,
Joe
khrys
446 posts
 
I had just bought an expensive Signet cartridge when I first heard the F-9E; I had to have it, it was so much better! Thus began a 25 year frenzy of audiophilia from which I have only recently recovered. Beware. There is no replacement for your F-9E. Only futile attempts to recreate the original high. BTW, what are you selling it for?
Log in to respond
More to discover
80x80
Kuzma 4POINT
80x80
Mutech Hayabusa
80x80
Acoustical Systems Archon MC Cartridge