Respectfully seek some arm+cartridge advice


First off, thanks to all the wonderful advice flowing thru this forum.I have finally upgraded from my Phase Linear/GAS amp system and joined the audiophiles of the millenium - including back into vinyl.

I purchased a vintage GyroDec with an SME 3010-R and also an upgraded Scout with the JMW-9. Both will need cartridges. I've read what I can (my wife thinks I'm ignoring her) on cartridge selection but don't have a strong sense of what works - which I suspect means most all combos "work", the question is "how well".

So as a neophyte, how do I select a cartridge I will love? I now know MC has a lower voltage output but I think I'm ok there. I know to select a cartridge compatable with the arm's weight - but how?

I figure the simplest thing is to(unnecessarily) spend a lot of money or just ask what everyone's using - which I welcome if they're on similar equipment.

I don't want to spend thousands and I am frugal - so "used" is fine. I need 2 different cartridges and I'd like to keep it under $1,000 yet be happy.

My equipment is decent including a Lexi MC-12 pre, Theta/Dreadnaught amp plus a couple of tube amps and a Mcintosh amp. I purchased a Musical Fidelity phono pre-. Speakers will be Hyperions for HT and I have B&Ws and Definitive Tech's. I have rarely "loved" digital music and I tend to Pink Floyd, Alan Parsons and Rock 'n Roll of the 70s but also classical and jazz.

What I'd love is a primer on what to do if one exists. Failing that, any recommendations welcome - I don't mind trying a number of options and reselling what's not right.

Cheers all,
Kevin
arbrnrngr

Showing 2 responses by dougdeacon

For your SME 3010-R I agree with Cello, pick up a Denon DL-103R. It should be an acceptable mass and compliance match and it's a wonderful cartridge for the money (<$300). You'll have to hurry, the 103 line is being discontinued.

I also agree with his advice to avoid used cartridges, at least until you have a little experience. It's easier to get burned with a used cartridge than any other component. If you know the seller that's different of course.

Your JMW needs a higher compliance cartridge. Grado's are a possiblity, but they're sensitive to stray EM fields, like leakage from the AC motor on your Scout. Some people have a hum problem with Grado's, some don't. They're also known to have a suspension issue: google on "grado dance" or "grado wiggle" and you'll get a million hits. Personally I can't think of a good reason to risk money with those risks. Dynavector, Audio Technica, ZYX, Benz and quite a few other brands make cartridges that would suit a JMW-9.

The Shelters mentioned by Hiradi would probably blow your budget. Certainly the 901 would, it lists for $1500. The 501MkII ($800) would suit your SME nicely but not the JMW.

Read the vinyl FAQ's on Audio Asylum for a primer on some technical issues. Not everything there is perfect or non-controversial, but it will give you a ton of information to chew on.

http://www.audioasylum.com/cgi/d.pl?audio/faq.html#vinyl
Ps: " You'll have to hurry, the 103 line is being discontinued ". Dougdeacon: ¡ BRAVO ! Thank's God is being discontinued, in that way it can't do it more harm to anyone.
LOL. Good one Raul. I think the Denons are excellent performers for their price, but it was funny anyway. I'm glad the new year is starting with such good news for you!
:-)

Helmut,
I totally agree about ZYX vs. Shelter vs. Koetsu. Check out my review of the Airy's if you haven't already. Another good thing: ZYX will retip/rebuild when the time comes. Shelter tells you to throw it away.

Doug